Palazzo dei Diamanti
Timetable
The palace can be visited during the opening hours of the "Pinacoteca" and during the temporary exhibitions taking place in the exhibition space on the ground floor.
The magnificent Palazzo dei Diamanti, at the centre of the Addizione Erculea, on the important crossroads known as the Quadrivio degli Angeli, belonged to the duke’s brother Sigismondo d’Este.
Its name derives from over 8000 pink and white marble ashlars in the form of pyramids (or diamonds) that cover the two façades. The architect Biagio Rossetti rendered it a townplanning masterpiece by placing the most important decoration on the corner: a contrivance destined to highlight the importance of the crossroads and make the building an entirely original work, designed as it was to be viewed in perspective rather than from in front of the façade.
Indeed, the corner adorned with splendid sculpted candelabras by Gabriele Frisoni and by a gracious balcony (added a little later) tends to lead the visitor towards the nearby Piazza Ariostea.
Inside, the structure develops over three wings, originally on a U-shaped layout, but altered by subsequent conversions. The palace is now home to museums: the National Picture Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale) is located on the main floor, and the exhibition space on the ground floor hosts the renowned Palazzo dei Diamanti exhibitions organized by Ferrara Arte.
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