Palazzo Forcella De Seta: A Seaside Palace of Eclectic Styles
Explore Palermo's Palazzo Forcella De Seta, a stunning blend of architectural styles with a rich history on the city's Mediterranean seafront.
Palazzo Forcella De Seta is located along Palermo's Mediterranean seafront in the historic Kalsa quarter. The palace is built on the remnants of the Porta dei Greci (1553), and overlooks the Foro Italico. Originally, the site held a seaside villa (casina a mare) owned by the Bonanno family. This villa suffered damage during the 1820 revolutions. In 1833, Marchese Enrico Carlo Forcella purchased the property and commissioned its reconstruction. Architects Nicolò Puglia and Emmanuele Palazzotto oversaw the project, blending Romanesque, Moorish, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles. The palace interiors included the "Sala dell’Alhambra", an octagonal room, and the "Sala dei Mosaici", drawing inspiration from medieval art and architecture. The Sala dell’Alhambra and the octagonal room showcased Moorish style with Arab decorations, polychrome stucco, colorful marble floors, and a fountain inspired by the Alhambra gardens. The Sala dei Mosaici featured reproductions of mosaics from Arab-Norman royal palaces in Palermo, particularly those from King Roger’s Palatine Chapel. Architect Giuseppe Patricolo designed the neo-Gothic facade on Piazza Kalsa with pointed-arched windows. In the early 20th century, Marchese Francesco De Seta acquired the palace and commissioned Onofrio Tomaselli to create the fresco "Trionfo della Primavera" in the neoclassical hall. The palace became a hub of the Palermitan Belle Époque. From 1937 to 1940, it housed the Mediterranea gallery. Today, Palazzo Forcella De Seta is owned by the Associazione di Costruttori Edile ed Affini di Palermo (ANCE Palermo).
Local tips
- Explore the Foro Italico surrounding the palace for scenic waterfront views.
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the architectural details and interior decorations.
- Check for local events or exhibitions that may be hosted within the Palazzo.
A brief summary to Palazzo Forcella De Seta
- Foro Italico Umberto I, 21, Palermo, Metropolitan City of Palermo, 90133, IT
Getting There
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Walking
From Piazza Kalsa, walk along Foro Italico Umberto I towards the sea. Palazzo Forcella De Seta will be on your right, a short walk from the piazza. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and offers pleasant views of the harbor. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Take bus lines 107, N5, 224, ARANC, or N7 to the Foro Umberto I Piazza Kalsa stop. From there, the palace is a short walk along Foro Italico Umberto I. A single bus ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at tobacconists, newsstands, or on the bus for €1.80.
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Taxi
From Palermo city center, a taxi ride to Palazzo Forcella De Seta typically costs between €10 and €15 , depending on traffic and the exact starting point. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxi stands are available throughout the city center.
