Origins and Construction

• Construction Date: Begun in 1583 by the Farnese family.
• Name: Derived from the pelota game played by Spanish soldiers in the courtyards.
• Function: A complex of services associated with the ducal court.

Architecture

• Style: Sobriety and grandeur, with the use of bricks and large interior spaces.
• Structure: An irregular complex with large courtyards, including the Courtyard of Pilotta.
• Extensions: Modifications and expansions during the Bourbon and Napoleonic eras.

Cultural Institutions in the Palace

Teatro Farnese

• Built in 1618 by Ranuccio I Farnese, entirely in wood.
• Mobile scenery, among the first "modern" theaters.
• Rebuilt after the damages of World War II.

National Gallery of Parma

• Houses works by Correggio, Parmigianino, Leonardo da Vinci.
• Also includes works by Tiepolo, Canaletto, and Van Dyck.

National Archaeological Museum

• Founded in 1760, displays artifacts from the Bronze Age, Roman, Egyptian, and Greek periods.

Palatina Library

• Founded in 1761, it preserves manuscripts, incunabula, and the globe room.

Bodonian Museum

• Dedicated to Giambattista Bodoni, with works and typographic tools.

Historical Events

• Severe damage during World War II, restored in the post-war period.

Curiosities

• Part of Italy's cultural heritage.
• Requalification project started in 2015.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
• Weekly Closure: Monday.
• Hours may vary during holidays and special events.

Ticket Prices

• Full Ticket: €18.00.
• Discounted for Groups (10-30 people): €14.00.
• Discounted for Young People (18-25 years): €2.00.
• Discount for Parent Couples with Children (18-25 years): €14.00 per parent.
• Free Entry: Children under 18 and members of the Friends of Pilotta Association.