Palazzo Rocca Chiavari
Historic palazzo showcasing art, local crafts, and the iconic Chiavari chairs, complemented by a serene botanical park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Open for public visits
Palazzo Rocca Chiavari
Best Time
Open for public visits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic palazzo showcasing art, local crafts, and the iconic Chiavari chairs, complemented by a serene botanical park.
"A treasure trove of art and history, Palazzo Rocca offers free entry and a beautiful garden escape."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the Palazzo Rocca and its collections without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly cultural stop!
🌿 Explore the Gardens
The botanical park is a peaceful retreat. Perfect for a relaxing walk after exploring the palazzo.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Civic Gallery
Main floor
Discover art objects, local craftsmanship, and textile wallpapers reflecting early 20th-century tastes.
Seventeenth-Century Picture Gallery
Palace's picture gallery
Admire Genoese and Flemish school paintings by artists like Orazio De Ferrari and Domenico Piola.
Chiavarine Chairs Collection
Dedicated floor
See a significant collection of the famous 'chiavarine', the iconic chairs from Chiavari.
Botanical Park
Adjacent to Palazzo Rocca
Wander through a beautifully maintained park, a testament to Giuseppe Rocca's renovation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours & Days
Explore the Botanical Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the Palazzo Rocca and its collections without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly cultural stop!
🌿 Explore the Gardens
The botanical park is a peaceful retreat. Perfect for a relaxing walk after exploring the palazzo.
📅 Check for Exhibitions
Palazzo Rocca often hosts temporary exhibitions. Check their schedule for unique art displays. 
🪑 Admire Chiavarine Chairs
Don't miss the impressive collection of famous Chiavari chairs, a local craft.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the Palazzo Rocca and its collections without an entry fee. A great budget-friendly cultural stop!
🌿 Explore the Gardens
The botanical park is a peaceful retreat. Perfect for a relaxing walk after exploring the palazzo.
📅 Check for Exhibitions
Palazzo Rocca often hosts temporary exhibitions. Check their schedule for unique art displays.
🪑 Admire Chiavarine Chairs
Don't miss the impressive collection of famous Chiavari chairs, a local craft.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Palazzo Rocca for its free admission and the opportunity to explore its historical art collections and the beautiful botanical park. The 'chiavarine' chair collection is a notable highlight, showcasing local craftsmanship. While some visits may coincide with restoration work, the overall experience is considered worthwhile and enriching.
"Was under restauration when I visited"
Roberto Carenzi
"A visit to the park of the same name is recommended. The palace hosts an exhibition on the ground floor and numerous rooms furnished with period furniture. The 19th-century kitchen is particularly interesting."
Fabioscaligero Veronese
"It is the city's most important museum. Its very location is of interest, as Palazzo Rocca Costaguta is an architectural treasure: a historic residence that became part of the heritage of the Municipality of Chiavari in the early 20th century. Construction of the palace began in 1626, commissioned by Marquis Achille Costaguta, who officially commissioned architect Bartolomeo Bianco. It was later purchased by the Grimaldis, the Pallavicinis, and finally in 1903 by Giuseppe Rocca, who oversaw its renovation and modernization, also annexing the still-existing botanical garden. Rocca then left it to his fellow citizens. The building's main floor, now the Civic Gallery, features a collection of art objects, local crafts, and textile wall hangings, significant and characteristic of early 20th-century living tastes. The palace's picture gallery, on the other hand, is almost entirely 17th-century, with paintings from the Genoese and Flemish schools, featuring artists such as Orazio De Ferrari, Jan Roos, and Domenico Piola. The Baroque period is also represented by some of the great names who frequented the Republic of Genoa and worked for the most important families: Strozzi, Valerio Castello, and the Grechetto family. The museum boasts a considerable number of "chiavarine," the famous Chiavari chairs. One floor of the palace is dedicated to temporary exhibitions.
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Rocca is located in Chiavari, Liguria. It's accessible by car, with parking potentially available nearby. Public transport options like trains to Chiavari station are also viable, followed by a short walk or local bus to the palazzo.
The palazzo is a prominent landmark in Chiavari. You can access it from Piazza dei Lavori in corso via a walkway, or directly from the Garden of Villa Rocca.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Palazzo Rocca is generally open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 4 PM to 7 PM. However, it's always best to verify current hours, especially if planning a visit during a special exhibition.
Admission to Palazzo Rocca is typically free, making it an excellent value for visitors interested in art and history.
While the main palazzo and its collections are accessible, information about visiting private apartments is not widely available. Focus on the public galleries and the botanical park.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside Palazzo Rocca, you'll find the Civic Gallery with art objects and local crafts, a 17th-century picture gallery featuring Genoese and Flemish art, and a dedicated floor showcasing 'chiavarine' chairs. Temporary exhibitions are also frequently held.
Absolutely! Art lovers will appreciate the 17th-century paintings by artists like Orazio De Ferrari and Domenico Piola, as well as the collection of local craftsmanship and textile wallpapers.
The 'chiavarine' are famous chairs originating from Chiavari, known for their elegant design and craftsmanship. Palazzo Rocca houses a considerable collection, highlighting this important local tradition.
The botanical park adjacent to Palazzo Rocca was renovated by Giuseppe Rocca. It's a beautiful, serene space perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying nature.
Information on regular guided tours isn't always prominent, but special events and group visits are sometimes organized. Following local event pages or the palazzo's social media might provide updates.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, especially during temporary exhibitions. It's advisable to check for any signage or ask staff upon arrival. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is often permitted, but flash might be restricted.
The botanical park offers picturesque scenes with its greenery and pathways. Inside, the art collections and the architecture of the palazzo itself provide excellent photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the art galleries might require a more subdued approach, the overall atmosphere is welcoming. Consider visiting on a weekend when the palazzo is open, allowing for a relaxed pace. Pack some snacks and water for the park to make the outing even more enjoyable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic in the botanical park to save on dining costs. The free access to such a significant cultural site is a major draw for anyone exploring Chiavari on a budget.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the architectural significance of the palazzo itself and the historical context of the 'chiavarine' chairs. The botanical park also adds a layer of historical landscape design to explore. Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions, which often bring diverse artistic expressions to the venue.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Palazzo Rocca
Giuseppe Rocca was instrumental in renovating and modernizing the palazzo, and crucially, he annexed the adjacent botanical park, which subsequently took on his name. He eventually bequeathed the entire estate to the Municipality of Chiavari, ensuring its preservation and public access. The palazzo's architecture reflects its historical lineage, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Ligurian noble residences.
Today, Palazzo Rocca serves as a cultural hub, housing a Civic Gallery and a picture gallery, alongside spaces for temporary exhibitions. Its historical significance is further amplified by its connection to the famous 'chiavarine' chairs, a testament to Chiavari's rich artisanal heritage.
Exploring the Botanical Park
+1Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along its paths, taking in the scents and sights of the diverse plant life. It's a perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and appreciating the efforts made to preserve and enhance this natural beauty. The park's integration with the palazzo creates a holistic experience, blending art, history, and nature.
+1The Art Collections and Chiavarine Chairs
The palace's picture gallery is predominantly filled with 17th-century works, featuring paintings from the Genoese and Flemish schools. Renowned artists such as Orazio De Ferrari, Jan Roos, and Domenico Piola are represented, showcasing the Baroque influence prevalent in the Republic of Genoa.
A significant highlight is the extensive collection of 'chiavarine' – the iconic chairs from Chiavari. A dedicated floor within the building is devoted to these pieces, underscoring their importance to the local heritage and craftsmanship.
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