Palazzo cardinale Cicada - Claudio Acquaviva
Museum | Atri | Abruzzi | Italy
The Palazzo Cardinale Cicada in Atri, Abruzzo, is a historic building with a rich history that now serves as a cultural center. Originally built in the 14th century as a Benedictine monastery with the church of Sant'Andrea, it was later used by the Franciscans. In 1556, the Genoese Cardinal Giovanni Battista Cicada took over the building and gave it to the Dukes of Atri. His nephew, the Jesuit Claudio Acquaviva, founded a college there, which was renovated in 1590 by Benedetto Romano. After the suppression of the Jesuit order in 1767, the building was used as an orphanage and later converted into an art and craft school. Today, it houses the "Istituto Tecnico Industriale Statale Vincenzo Rosati" and serves as a venue for cultural events.
The architecture of the palace is characterized by Renaissance and Baroque elements. The facade features a simple Renaissance design with a striking portal and a noticeable cornice. Inside, there is a courtyard with loggias and a large hall with a high vaulted ceiling that is used for various events.
The Palazzo Cardinale Cicada is a significant cultural heritage of the region and a testament to the varied history of Atri. Its diverse uses over the centuries reflect the social and cultural changes of the city. Today, it is a lively center for education and culture, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Atri's historical heritage.
