Background

Palazzo Barozzi: A Renaissance Gem in Vignola

Explore Palazzo Barozzi in Vignola, a Renaissance masterpiece with a stunning spiral staircase designed by Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola.

4.6

Palazzo Barozzi, also known as Palazzo Contrari-Boncompagni, is a stunning Renaissance palace in Vignola, Italy, famed for its exquisite architecture and the self-supporting spiral staircase designed by Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola. A visit offers a glimpse into the lives of the noble families who once resided here.

A brief summary to Palazzo Barozzi

  • Saturday 10 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, which enhance the beauty of Vignola and the surrounding area.
  • Check the opening hours and book a guided tour in advance, especially if you are visiting with a group.
  • Explore the basement to see the restored cellars and the base of the famous spiral staircase.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Rocca di Vignola and other historical sites in the town.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Palazzo Barozzi is located in Piazza dei Contrari in the center of Vignola, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations in the town center. From the Rocca di Vignola, it's just a short walk across the Piazza dei Contrari. Walking around Vignola is easy due to pedestrian-friendly areas.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Modena or nearby towns, get off at the Vignola Centro bus stop. From there, it is a short walk to Piazza dei Contrari and Palazzo Barozzi. Bus tickets cost approximately €2-€6 depending on the distance.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available in several car parks around Vignola. Via Zenzano offers free parking and connects to Piazza dei Contrari via an underpass. Corso Italia has paid parking. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour. The SABA Corso Italia parking is a 4-minute walk to Rocca.

Unlock the Best of Palazzo Barozzi

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Palazzo Barozzi

Palazzo Barozzi, also called Palazzo Contrari-Boncompagni, stands proudly in Piazza dei Contrari, directly across from the Rocca di Vignola. Built in the 16th century (circa 1560-1567) by Ercole Contrari the Elder, the palace was designed by the renowned Vignola architect, Jacopo Barozzi, hence its alternative name. The palace's architecture reflects Renaissance elegance. Originally, the basement and ground floor served practical purposes like kitchens and storage, while the main floor was reserved for the feudal lord's living quarters and receiving guests. The attic housed servants. The palace's most striking feature is the self-supporting spiral staircase. Designed by Barozzi, this architectural marvel has a helicoidal shape and is considered a masterpiece. The staircase has a single supporting pillar in the basement, with each of the 106 steps self-supporting. As you ascend, the three openings offer views of Vignola. The frescoes adorning the staircase walls date back to 1880, commissioned by Prince Antonio Boncompagni. Recent restoration work has opened the basement to visitors, revealing cellars, a kitchen, wells, and the base of the spiral staircase. Guided tours, typically lasting 40-50 minutes, provide insights into the palace's history and architectural significance. Reservations are recommended, especially for groups.

Popular Experiences near Palazzo Barozzi

Popular Hotels near Palazzo Barozzi

Select Currency