Step inside the Gallerie di Palazzo Leoni Montanari to see collections of Russian icons in addition to work by famed Venetian artists and contemporary Italian painters. Admire the museum’s stunning setting in a Baroque palace and enjoy a free concert.
The museum has two permanent collections. On the palace’s main floor is a superb collection of Russian icons. It consists of about 130 religious-themed works and is considered to be one of the finest collections of Russian religious art outside of Russia itself. Among the collection are a late 15th-century Natale di Cristo (Birth of Christ) and an 18th-century Crocifissione (Crucifiction).
The 18th-century Venetian collection showcases the work of several revered Venetian artists. These include Francesco Albotto, Michele Marieschi and Pietro Longhi. Check out Longhi’s contemporary scenes such as La Lezione di Musica (The Music Lesson) and La Bottega del Caffé (The Coffee Shop). The museum has a small gallery dedicated to 20th-century Italian art, too. Spot work by abstract artist Carla Accardi and contemporary painter Alberto Magnelli, among others.
Take time to appreciate the architectural splendour of the museum’s building, a Baroque palace that dates back to 1678. Originally the private residence of the wealthy Leoni Montanari family, the building served as a banking headquarters before opening as a museum in 1999. Look for neoclassical, Greek and Roman-mythological decorations as you walk through the palace’s rooms.
The Gallerie di Palazzo Leoni Montanari is located in Vicenza’s city centre. It’s a short walk from major city attractions such as the Teatro Olimpico and Palazzo Chiericati. Public buses stop close to the museum or it’s a 15-minute walk from Vicenza’s train station.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and there is an admission fee. Purchase the Vicenza Città Bellissima museum card to enjoy admission to six municipal museums, including the Gallerie di Palazzo Leoni Montanari and the Teatro Olimpico. The card is valid for 3 days and can be purchased at the Gallerie di Palazzo Leoni Montanari and the Teatro Olimpico. Visit the museum’s website for information about free concerts and temporary exhibitions.
