In Napoli, the old and the new coexist in perfect harmony. You can see and feel this unique blend throughout the city—in family-run restaurants, cozy cafés, and even in modern graffiti on historic buildings. This fusion is a vital part of Napoli's identity and can be found in its most central locations, including Via Toledo.
Old meets new in a perfect way in the building of Intesa Sanpaolo’s Gallerie d’Italia.
Designed by Marcello Piacentini at the end of the 1930s, the building, formerly the headquarters of the Banco di Napoli, was renovated by Michele De Lucchi -AMDL Circle in line with the latest museum standards, and now is the home of Intesa Sanpaolo's art collection.
THE BUILDING
The Gallerie d’Italia stands on a site once occupied by the sprawling San Giacomo complex, where, in the third decade of the 16th century, construction began on a church and hospital at the behest of Viceroy Pedro de Toledo. Later, the area became home to bank and administrative buildings. Following the partial demolition of the headquarters of the Bourbon State Ministries, a new vision for the space emerged. It was then that Marcello Piacentini conceived and designed the grand Banco di Napoli building in the late 1930s. After just 13 months of construction, the new bank headquarters officially opened on 9 May 1940.
GALLERIE D'ITALIA TODAY
In recent years, Neapolitans and tourists alike witnessed the renovation of the building, which was completed in 2022 when the new Gallerie d’Italia opened its doors to the public. It was an immense undertaking, but it was well worth it: the Gallerie has now become a vital part of Via Toledo and the cultural life of the city.
On display are three main exhibition paths with works belonging to Intesa Sanpaolo's historical and artistic heritage: Neapolitan art from the 17th to 20th century; a collection of Attic and Magna Graecia pottery displayed in its entirety for the first time; and a selection of works from the Twentieth Century.
The Gallerie also hosts temporary exhibitions from time to time, so when planning a visit to Napoli, it’s always worth checking their current cultural offerings!