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Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina: A Subterranean Journey Through History and Art

Explore Perugia's underground fortress: A unique venue where history meets contemporary art and culture.

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The Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina in Perugia is a unique exhibition space housed within the underground remnants of a 16th-century papal fortress. Visitors can explore the evocative ruins while experiencing contemporary art and historical exhibits. It's a fascinating blend of the city's past and present.

A brief summary to Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina

Local tips

  • Check the exhibition schedule in advance to see what's on during your visit.
  • Take your time exploring the architecture of the fortress, including the remains of the Porta Marzia.
  • The Rocca Paolina is accessible via escalators from Piazza Partigiani.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza IV Novembre, walk along Corso Vannucci towards Piazza Italia. The Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina is located at Piazza Italia, 11. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus number 1 or 4 from the bus stop near Piazza IV Novembre towards Piazza Italia. Alight at the Piazza Italia stop. The Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Parking

    The closest parking to Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina is the Piazza Partigiani parking. Take the escalators from the parking lot to Piazza Italia. The Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina is located at Piazza Italia, 11. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €2-3 per hour.

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Discover more about Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina

The Centro Espositivo Rocca Paolina (CERP) is a captivating cultural venue located in the heart of Perugia, Italy. This exhibition center resides within the remains of the Rocca Paolina, a fortress built in the 16th century by Pope Paul III. The fortress was erected after the Pope suppressed the Salt War, a revolt against papal authority, and was designed to symbolize papal power. The fortress was designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, who integrated existing structures and demolished others, forever changing the city's layout. The above-ground parts of the fortress were torn down after Perugia was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy in 1860, but the underground section remained. In the 1980s, the space was repurposed as an exhibition center, offering a unique setting for art and cultural events. Today, visitors can descend into the depths of the Rocca Paolina and wander through the atmospheric underground passages. The CERP hosts a variety of exhibitions, from contemporary art to historical displays, providing insights into the region's culture and artistic expressions. The imposing architecture of the fortress creates a dramatic backdrop for the artwork, resulting in a memorable experience. The site also incorporates the remains of the Etruscan Porta Marzia, offering a glimpse into Perugia's ancient past. The Rocca Paolina also hosts a Christmas market, and during Eurochocolate, it is transformed into "Rocca Pralina".

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