As you admire the view of Todi from the Oberdan Garden, you can’t help but notice a large building attached to the Duomo and overlooking the medieval Nidola District: this is the Bishop’s Palace.
Located a few steps from the Piazza del Popolo, the palace was entirely restored and enlarged in the second half of the 16th century under the direction of Bishop Angelo Cesi, a powerful and cultured man considered to be the Mecenate (patron of arts) of Todi par excellence. You will learn more about him and his patronage while touring the Duomo and the palace with Elisa, Licensed Tour Guide in Todi and Umbria!
The restored palace took the shape of an aristocratic residence, with a service area on the ground floor (garden, kitchens, food storage sheds, stables, etc.), offices on the first floor, and meeting rooms on the second floor. The top floor, the most panoramic, was meant for servants.
The guided visit with Elisa gives you access to the main floor (not always open to visitors), entirely decorated with amazing frescoes by Ferraù da Faenza and Andrea Polinori, depicting portraits of bishops, episodes from Todi’s history, and the big map of Todi’s territory at the beginning of the 16th century.
Foto credits Steve Mc. Curry
Entrance fee of €3 per person + €80 for the guided visit, if not already included into the Classic Tour of Todi-Special Itinerary
With another €2 per person you can also visit the Nunziatina Church, known as the “Small Sistina”, a hidden treasure of the Italian Baroque style. Not to be missed in the church: the noteworthy portrait of Jacopone da Todi, the great mystic and poet, the painting depicting the Wedding in Canah and the elegant frescoed interior.
