Palazzo Massoni
Museum | Lucca | Tuscany | Italy
The Palazzo Mansi in Lucca, Italy, is an outstanding example of the residential culture of the wealthy merchant families of the city. Originally built in the late 16th century, the Mansi family acquired the building in 1616 and had it redesigned in the Baroque style between 1686 and 1691. The interiors of the palace are richly decorated and offer a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the time.
Today, the Palazzo Mansi houses the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi, which presents an impressive collection of artworks and historical artifacts. The painting gallery includes works by Italian and non-Italian artists from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Particularly noteworthy are the Brussels tapestries, which are a significant part of the collection. On the second floor, there are exhibitions from the 19th and 20th centuries, providing a comprehensive overview of art history.
A special highlight of the museum is the Maria Niemack Rustico-Weberatelier, housed in the former kitchen rooms of the palace. Here, visitors can see historical looms and tools from the 19th and 20th centuries and learn more about traditional weaving art.
The Palazzo Mansi is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a living testament to the history and culture of Lucca. Its preservation and the presentation of the collections allow visitors to immerse themselves in the city's rich past and experience the artworks in their historical context.
