The Palazzo Ducale in Mantua is the former residence of the Gonzaga family, who ruled the city for centuries. Set around Piazza Sordello in the historic centre of Mantua, in the Lombardy region of Italy, it is a vast ducal complex rather than a single building, and it is known locally as the Palazzo Ducale di Mantova.
What to see
The palace contains more than 500 rooms, which gives a sense of the scale of court life in the Renaissance. Among them is the Camera degli Sposi, decorated by Andrea Mantegna, which is the highlight most visitors come to see. The rooms as a whole show how a Renaissance court was organised, with its ceremonial spaces, living quarters and collections.
What kind of visit it makes
- A long, unhurried visit suited to people interested in art, history or the Gonzaga court
- A good match for a day spent exploring Mantua on foot
- Worth planning ahead, since the complex is large and can take a considerable amount of time to walk through
Around the palace
The palace sits in the old town, so it is easy to combine with a walk through the surrounding squares and streets. Mantua's historic centre, with its open squares and lakeside setting, makes a natural companion to a visit. For practical details such as current opening arrangements, you can contact the palace directly by phone at +39 0376 224832, or visit it at Piazza Sordello 40, 46100 Mantova MN, Italy.
