Cortili Aperti Francavilla Fontana
The historic palaces of Francavilla Fontana open their doors for the National Day of Historic Houses
About Cortili Aperti
A journey inside the secret palaces of Francavilla Fontana
For an entire weekend, Francavilla Fontana, an elegant Baroque town in the province of Brindisi nicknamed the "City of the Imperials," transforms into an open-air museum. Cortili Aperti is the local stage of the National Day of Historic Houses promoted by the ADSI (Italian Historic Houses Association): a unique opportunity to cross the threshold of noble palaces, hidden courtyards, and entryways that usually remain closed, discovering an architectural heritage that tells centuries of Salento history.
The palaces and courtyards open to the public
The route winds through some of the most prestigious and iconic sites in the historic center. Featured residences include Castello Imperiali, the city's monumental heart, the Ex Real Collegio Ferdinando (now the Bilotta School), Palazzo del Sedile, restored to its former glory, along with Palazzo Argentina, Palazzo Caroli-Forleo-Milone, Palazzo Galante-Calò, Palazzo Pipino-Resta, Palazzo Salerno, and Palazzo Truppi-Ognissanti. Each courtyard preserves frescoes, secret gardens, and glimpses that recount the lives of the noble families of Francavilla.
Exceptional guides and activities in the courtyards
One of the most charming aspects of the initiative is the involvement of local students, who act as special guides, accompanying visitors through the halls and sharing stories and curiosities about the palaces. The courtyards come alive with art exhibitions, displays of artistic craftsmanship—from woodworking to goldsmithing, tailoring to traditional trades—as well as musical moments and events dedicated to the flavors and traditions of the region.
Why it's worth visiting
Cortili Aperti is more than just a guided tour: it is a way to rediscover the identity of Francavilla Fontana through its stones, courtyards, and historic families. Admission to the palaces is free, and the intimate atmosphere of the historic center, with its Baroque alleys and squares, makes the day an experience designed for families, art lovers, and the curious. An unmissable appointment for those who want to discover the most authentic and hidden face of this Apulian city.
Cortili Aperti — edition 2026
The second local edition of Cortili Aperti brought Francavilla Fontana to life throughout the weekend of May 23-24, 2026, as part of the 16th National Day of Historic Houses promoted by the ADSI. On Saturday, May 23, the opening was dedicated to the "Hidden Treasures of Puglia" program with a visit to the Sanctuary of Maria SS. della Croce; on Sunday, May 24, the main day, the historic palaces welcomed the public from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Among the featured residences were the Castello Imperiali, hosting the "Baroque and Neo-Baroque" exhibition, the Ex Real Collegio Ferdinando (Bilotta School) with the "Garden of Delights" bonsai display, and the Palazzo del Sedile, reopened after restoration. The courtyards hosted art exhibitions, artisans at work, a show cooking dedicated to the traditional 'confetto riccio', a vintage motorcycle rally, and musical moments by the group Be Swing, with local students acting as special guides.
Programme Cortili Aperti 2026
Saturday, May 23 — Hidden Treasures of Puglia
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM — Guided tour of the Sanctuary of Maria SS. della Croce, featuring restored frescoes and the rare wooden choir
Sunday, May 24 — Cortili Aperti
- 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM — Opening of historic palaces and courtyards in the center (Castello Imperiali, Ex Real Collegio Ferdinando, Palazzo del Sedile, Palazzo Argentina, Palazzo Caroli-Forleo-Milone, Palazzo Galante-Calò, Palazzo Pipino-Resta, Palazzo Salerno, Palazzo Truppi-Ognissanti)
Guided tours of the historic center: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 5:00 PM, and 6:00 PM.
Guided tours of the "Baroque and Neo-Baroque" exhibition (Castello Imperiali): 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 5:30 PM, and 6:30 PM.
In the courtyards: art exhibitions, artistic craft displays, 'confetto riccio' show cooking, vintage motorcycle rally, and musical performances by the group Be Swing. Local students accompany visitors as special guides.
Highlights Cortili Aperti 2026
Prices Cortili Aperti 2026
Practical information — Cortili Aperti
Location
Historic center of Francavilla Fontana (BR), Puglia. The meeting point for guided tours is generally Piazza Umberto I.
Admission
Access to the palaces is free. Guided tours may require booking; those who book online are entitled to priority access to the exhibition held at Castello Imperiali.
How to get there
Francavilla Fontana can be reached by car via the SS7 ter and is served by the railway station on the Taranto-Brindisi line. The historic center is pedestrian-friendly and easily walkable.
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Where does it take place — Cortili Aperti
Centro storico di Francavilla Fontana
Piazza Umberto I, 72021 Francavilla Fontana