Zevallos Stigliano Palace

Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano is one of the architectural and cultural gems of Naples, located on the lively Via Toledo, one of the main arteries of the city. Its history dates back to the 17th century when Giovanni Zevallos, a wealthy Spanish merchant, commissioned the construction of the palace in 1635. The project was entrusted to Cosimo Fanzago, one of the most renowned Baroque architects of the time. The palace was completed in 1639 and soon became a symbol of the power and wealth of the Zevallos family. Over time, Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano changed ownership several times, reflecting the historical and social dynamics of Naples. In 1653, it was purchased by the Flemish merchant Jan van den Eynde, who transferred his extraordinary art collection there. Subsequently, the palace passed to the Colonna di Stigliano family in 1688, who commissioned further decoration works, including frescoes by Luca Giordano, unfortunately lost today. A significant moment in the history of the palace was during the mid-20th century, when it was acquired by the Banca Commerciale Italiana. During this period, the engineer Platania made neoclassical and Art Nouveau style modifications, transforming the original courtyard into a majestic central hall with a glass skylight. These modern interventions have preserved the historical essence of the palace, integrating it with contemporary architectural elements. Today, Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano is an art gallery owned by Intesa Sanpaolo, part of the Gallerie d’Italia project, which also includes locations in Milan and Vicenza. The permanent collection of the palace includes artworks ranging from the 17th to the 20th century, with a particular focus on Neapolitan artists. Among the exhibited masterpieces, stands out “The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula,” Caravaggio’s last work created in 1610 shortly before his death. This painting, with its dramatic intensity and technical mastery, attracts visitors from all over the world. The rooms of the palace offer a journey through centuries of art history. Among the represented artists are Vincenzo Gemito, Gaspar van Wittel, and members of the Posillipo School such as Giacinto Gigante and Domenico Morelli. Each room is dedicated to a specific period or style, allowing visitors to appreciate the richness and diversity of Neapolitan art.