Collegio del Cambio
A hidden Renaissance gem in Perugia, featuring breathtaking frescoes by Perugino and Raphael, and a glimpse into medieval commerce.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Collegio del Cambio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden Renaissance gem in Perugia, featuring breathtaking frescoes by Perugino and Raphael, and a glimpse into medieval commerce.
"Amazing place with truly astonishing frescoes. Cheap entry - €6 but doesn’t take long to do justice."
🎯 Discreet Entrance
The front door is easily missed on the main shopping street. Look carefully!
⏳ Quick Visit
This gem can be fully appreciated in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cultural 'splash'!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perugino's Masterpieces
Sala delle Udienze
Marvel at the breathtaking frescoes by Pietro Perugino and his workshop, a true highlight of Renaissance art.
Raphael's Touch
Sala delle Udienze
Discover the ceiling paintings, a testament to the early genius of Raphael, Perugino's famous student.
Guild History & Artifacts
Exhibition Area
Explore a unique collection of old coins, weights, and measures, offering insight into medieval commerce.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Hidden Gem for Art Lovers
Tickets & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Discreet Entrance
The front door is easily missed on the main shopping street. Look carefully!
⏳ Quick Visit
This gem can be fully appreciated in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cultural 'splash'!
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Save money with a combined ticket that includes the Collegio della Mercanzia.
🖼️ Art Appreciation
Take your time to soak in the incredible frescoes by Perugino and Raphael.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Discreet Entrance
The front door is easily missed on the main shopping street. Look carefully!
⏳ Quick Visit
This gem can be fully appreciated in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cultural 'splash'!
🎟️ Combined Tickets
Save money with a combined ticket that includes the Collegio della Mercanzia.
🖼️ Art Appreciation
Take your time to soak in the incredible frescoes by Perugino and Raphael.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Collegio del Cambio for its stunning Renaissance frescoes by Perugino and Raphael, calling the art a marvel. The affordable entry and unique historical artifacts are also highlights, though some note the discreet entrance and occasional unenthusiastic staff. It's considered a small but impactful cultural stop.
"Only small, about 2 large rooms in all, but interesting. The whole place has been tastefully renovated. The ceiling paintings are a marvel. The wall murals too. Interesting collection of old coins, weights & measures. Interpretation boards in all the major languages are a bonus. €6 admission. €7 for a combined ticket with the Merchants Hall. An unusual but historically relevant museum, given the importance of guilds and exchanges in the Middle Ages."
C V
"Amazing place with truly astonishing frescoes. Cheap entry - €6 but doesn’t take long to do justice (20 mins or so). Great place if you want a splash of culture (I have young kids) rather than a full museum"
Paul Davis
"Painted by Raphael and his mentor Perugino.
You can get combined ticket with the Collegio della Mercanzia"
Kent Wang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Collegio del Cambio is located on the main shopping street in Perugia. Its entrance is quite discreet, so keep an eye out! Many visitors report missing it on their first pass.
As it's in the city center, it's easily accessible by walking from most central Perugia locations. If arriving by bus, disembark at a central stop and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or local tourist information before your visit. Generally, it's open during standard daytime hours.
Admission is affordable, typically around €6. You can also purchase a combined ticket for €7 that includes entry to the Collegio della Mercanzia, offering great value.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the ticket booth. Given the small size and quick visit duration, advance booking is generally not necessary.
There is no strict dress code, but as it's a place of art and history, modest attire is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 20-30 minutes is sufficient to fully appreciate the Collegio del Cambio, making it an ideal stop for a quick cultural immersion.
The main attractions are the stunning frescoes in the Sala delle Udienze by Perugino and his workshop, including early works by Raphael. There's also a unique collection of historical weights and measures.
While official guided tours might not always be available, the site often provides informative brochures in multiple languages. Some social media content offers insights into the art.
Yes, it's a great place for a 'splash of culture' with children as it's not overwhelming. The visual art can be engaging for younger visitors.
It's renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Renaissance frescoes, particularly those by Pietro Perugino and his pupil Raphael, adorning the Sala delle Udienze.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within the Collegio del Cambio itself. However, it's located in the heart of Perugia, surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants.
You'll find a wide variety of Umbrian cuisine, from traditional trattorias serving pasta and local meats to cafes offering pastries and coffee.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can change, but generally, flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate frescoes. Check for signage upon entry.
The Sala delle Udienze, with its vibrant frescoes and intricate ceiling, offers the most iconic photo opportunities. Capture the details of Perugino's work.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the colors and figures in the paintings, turning it into a visual scavenger hunt. The collection of old coins and weights can also be a point of interest for curious young minds. Remember to check for any photography restrictions before you go.
💰 Budget Travelers
Given that the visit is relatively short (around 30 minutes), it won't eat up a significant portion of your day or budget. It's a highly rewarding experience that provides a significant cultural and artistic payoff for a minimal cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Sala delle Udienze
Adding to the room's prestige are the ceiling decorations, which were executed by a young Raphael, Perugino's most famous pupil. These early works already hint at the genius that would later define Renaissance art. The intricate details and vibrant colors, despite their age, are remarkably preserved, offering visitors a direct connection to a pivotal moment in art history.
Visitors often express awe at the sheer quality and detail of the frescoes, noting how the intimate setting allows for close appreciation of the artistry. The interpretation boards available in multiple languages enhance the understanding and enjoyment of these masterpieces.
A Glimpse into Medieval Commerce
The museum houses an interesting collection of old coins, weights, and measures that were used by the guild members. These artifacts provide tangible evidence of the economic activities and the precision required in their trade. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the practical, everyday aspects of history that often get overshadowed by grander narratives.
This historical context adds another layer of appreciation to the Collegio del Cambio, transforming it from just an art gallery into a site that tells a broader story of civic and economic life in Renaissance Italy. The blend of art and history makes for a uniquely enriching experience.
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