The timeless beauty of Palazzo Moroni
Situated in the heart of Bergamo, amidst the enchanting alleys of the Città Alta, proudly stands Palazzo Moroni—a majestic architectural jewel dating back to the 17th century. This splendid residence was commissioned by the couple Francesco Moroni and Lucrezia Roncalli, who were captivated by the city’s extraordinary elegance and artistic beauty. Choosing the historical area of Porta Dipinta, now known as Via Dipinta, they created their marvellous residence. Preserved by the Fondazione Museo del Palazzo Moroni, the historical archives of the Moroni Family hold the tales of a Lombard legacy, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Bergamo, fuelled by their unwavering passion and dedication to Baroque art and architecture.
A Wonderland of Art: exploring Frescoes, Architecture, and Gardens
Palazzo Moroni warmly welcomes guests with its expansive portico adorned by the magnificent Neptune sculpture. Beyond the portico, behold the grandiose main staircase leading to the noble floor, where elegant residential rooms await. Here, immersed in a realm of sheer beauty, surrounded by walls adorned with captivating 17th and 19th-century artistic masterpieces the rich heritage of Palazzo Moroni comes alive. The noble floor also houses the Moroni Collection, an extensive and diverse array of treasures, including remarkable portraits like Gian Gerolamo Grumelli’s (The Knight in Pink) and Isotta Brembati’s, both masterfully painted by artist Albino Giovanni Battista Moroni.
Outside, a delightful surprise awaits in the enchanting panoramic garden—one of the largest parks in Bergamo Alta. Nestled on the Sant’Eufemia hill, this private garden offers a true haven of tranquillity, featuring a balcony and three 17th-century style terraces. From the highest terrace, you can access the neomedieval tower belonging to the Civic Fortress, affectionately known as the “Count’s Retreat,” exuding the rich history and allure of a bygone era. Adding to the beauty of the garden is the vast agricultural area called “ortaglia,” alongside a plethora of mulberry trees—a cherished symbol representing the family’s heritage and their involvement in silk production.
The Elegance of Baroque Art
Palazzo Moroni stands as one of the most exquisite and significant representations of Baroque painting in the Bergamo region – an invaluable artistic treasure for Lombardy. One standout artist among the contributors to this remarkable painted cycle is Gian Giacomo Barbelli, a talented painter from Crema, entrusted by Francesco Moroni to embellish the palace’s spaces. What leaves visitors in awe are the residential rooms, aptly named after the subjects depicted in the paintings, all intertwined with classical myths. In the “Golden Age Room,” Saturn is surrounded by allegorical figures representing Peace, Abundance, Simplicity, and Joy. Another captivating room is the “Falling of the Giants Room,” vividly illustrating Jupiter’s thunderbolt-fuelled battle against the Giants. Other notable spaces include the “Hercules Room” and the “Jerusalem Delivered Room,” paying homage to the literary masterpiece by Torquato Tasso.
The art collections and frescoes found within Palazzo Moroni serve as a testament to the owners’ profound appreciation for art, architecture, and nature—transforming the entire palace into a treasure trove of beauty and culture, waiting to be discovered and cherished.
A territorial partnership
Palazzo Moroni, managed by the Fondazione Museo di Palazzo Moroni since 2019 and donated to the Italian Environmental Fund (FAI) in 2020 to support the enhancement of artistic, cultural, and environmental heritage, was chosen by Dolce&Gabbana during Milan Design Week. The brand has always been an ambassador of Italian artisan excellence and the wonders of art and architecture in the region, personalizing one of the main rooms of the villa with a Leo print installation and furnishings.
In 2023, Dolce&Gabbana further solidified its collaboration with FAI, joining forces to protect and promote essential values such as Italian heritage, culture, tradition, education, and beauty, reaffirming a deep connection with the Italian territory.
Milan Design Week witnessed Dolce&Gabbana’s narrative come to life through videos and images dedicated to FAI’s most cherished locations. The Virtual Room of the Dolce&Gabbana Casa store at Corso Venezia 7 brought to life this captivating experience, where Palazzo Moroni shone brightly as a genuine treasure of art and elegance.
