Palazzo dei Consoli

Gubbio's most recognizable building is the Palazzo dei Consoli which dominates the Piazza Grande. If you're a fan of the Italian TV show Don Matteo you'll recognize the palazzo from many scenes shot in the piazza.

The grandiose Gothic-style building is fronted by a grand staircase that offers gorgeous views over the town and the surrounding countryside. Inside are frescoed salons, which contrast with the Sala dell'Arengo, a rustic stone hall with a stone barrel vault ceiling where the "arengo" or council met to conduct civic business. There are secret passageways and the building had a medieval water system and plumbing; it was greatly advanced for its time.

The building is home to the Museo Civico, a civic museum started in 1909, with covers the history and culture of Gubbio and the area from prehistory through the 20th century. There are coins minted for dukes and popes, regionally crafted ceramics and impressive paintings. The collection includes ancient artifacts from the Umbra and Roman periods. The jewel of the museum's collection is the Tavole Iguvine, bronze plates inscribed with ancient Umbra text describing ancient rites.

HOURS: From 10:00 AM til 1:00 PM and from 3:00 PM til 6:00 PM daily.