Villa Pignatelli, the splendid historic residence located on the Riviera di Chiaia in Naples, has been officially assigned to the management of the Royal Palace of Naples. The transfer of management was formalized with the signing of the delivery report on June 24, according to which the Villa no longer depends on the Regional Directorate of Museums of Campania, but on the museum of the Royal Palace, directed by Mario Epifani. This decision was foreseen by the ministerial decree of last February.
A Journey Through History
Villa Pignatelli, built in 1826 as the residence of baronet Sir Ferdinand Richard Acton, has passed through various eras and owners. It was purchased by banker Carl Mayer von Rothschild in 1841 and, with the unification of Italy, was sold to Prince Diego Aragona Pignatelli Cortes. It was the latter who transformed the villa into one of the symbolic places of the Neapolitan Belle Époque. In 1955, Princess Rosina Pignatelli, heir to the royal family, donated the villa to the Italian State with the condition that it be turned into a house-museum dedicated to the exhibition of the historical and artistic heritage of the Pignatellis.
An Architectural Heritage
Villa Pignatelli is considered one of the most beautiful house-museums in Italy. In the early 40s, the architect Gaetano Genovese, the same person in charge of the restoration of the Royal Palace after the fire of 1837, restored and expanded the villa. This work created an important historical and architectural link between Villa Pignatelli and the Neapolitan royal palace. The villa is surrounded by a small park with rare species such as the Ficus Macrophylla and a magnificent Magnolia Grandiflora, offering a green oasis to the citizens.
Activities and Management
In addition to the Diego Aragona Pignatelli Cortes Museum, Villa Pignatelli houses the Carriage Museum and a charming greenhouse, where events and small exhibitions are planned. The new management plans to increase the cultural offering, with musical festivals and photography exhibitions. Currently, the villa has enough staff to guarantee regular opening to the public, with 14 reception and surveillance staff, three administrative staff and one official.
Future Developments
Director Mario Epifani has declared his intention to follow a path similar to that undertaken by the Royal Palace during its consolidation as an autonomous entity. The relationships already established by the Regional Directorate will be continued, and the existing memoranda of understanding will be confirmed. Furthermore, numerous interventions will improve the use of the spaces of the villa, both in terms of security and surveillance, and in terms of hospitality.
Article published on 9 July 2024 - 17:37
