Palazzo Casali

Palazzo Casali Review

Built originally by the Casali family, who lived here until 1409, this palace combines 13th- to 17th-century architectural styles. Today it is home to the Accademia Etrusca, with an extensive library; La Biblioteca Comunale; and the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca e della Città di Cortona (aka MAEC). An eclectic mix of Egyptian objects, Etruscan and Roman bronzes and statuettes, and paintings is on display in the museum. Perhaps the most famous piece is the Tabula Cortonensis, an Etruscan contract written on bronze that was found in 1922 but dates back to the second century BC. In the basement, sections of the Etruscan and Roman buildings that form the foundations of the palace have been exposed. Look for work by Renaissance artists such as Luca Signorelli and Pinturcchio (circa 1454-1513). From May through September, guided tours are available in English with prior arrangement. Accompanied visits, but only with Italian guides, to the Etruscan tombs on the slopes below Cortona may also be booked.