Nestled in the heart of Voghera, Palazzo Gallini is not only a monument of exceptional architectural beauty, but also a treasure trove of the town‘s historical and cultural memories. This historic residence, dating back to the first half of the 19th century, was the home of Carlo Gallini, a prominent figure in local history and a man of great culture and passion for art. Gallini not only served as Voghera‘s first citizen for more than twenty years, but was also the founder of the Pio Istituto Agricolo Vogherese, testimony to his civic commitment and vision for the development of the territory.
Palazzo Gallini stands as a perfect example of neoclassical architecture, a style that characterised many fine buildings of the period. Built with elegance and harmonious proportions, the palace reflects the aesthetic canons of the period, with particular attention to the balance of forms and sobriety of the decorations. Originally conceived as a quadrilateral structure, the building has undergone several modifications and extensions over the years. However, the noble part of the palace has managed to retain its original charm, offering visitors an authentic testimony to the architectural taste of the period.
A special highlight inside Palazzo Gallini are the frescoes adorning the ceilings of the main rooms. Dating back to the late 19th century, these frescoes have been skilfully restored, bringing to light elegant floral motifs and mythological scenes that catch the eye for their refinement. The frescoes are a testimony not only to the artistic skill of their creators, but also to the taste and aesthetic sensitivity of Carlo Gallini, who knew how to surround himself with works of art of great value.
The palace‘s picture gallery is another element of great interest. It includes works partly purchased and partly created by Gallini himself, who in addition to being a patron and collector, was also a passionate painter. Among the most valuable paintings is an original work by Guercino, one of the greatest exponents of the Italian Baroque, alongside paintings of the Flemish school, known for their attention to detail and lively colours. The Gallini collection is a true journey through art, reflecting the variety of its owner‘s cultural interests and his love of beauty.
On the ground floor of the palace is the historical archive, a place of great importance for the collective memory of Voghera and its territory. This archive holds documents covering an extraordinary time span, from the year 979 to the present day. It is a veritable documentary treasure that offers an in-depth view of local history, from political and social events to the economic and urban transformations that have shaped the town and its territory.
The archive is particularly valuable for scholars and enthusiasts of local history, as it contains a wide range of documents: from official papers to private correspondence, from cadastral registers to purchase and sale contracts. These documents not only tell the story of a town, but also the vicissitudes of a family, the Gallini family, which left an indelible mark on the life of Voghera.
