The Episcopal Palace of Sutri, with its ancient Christian roots dating back to the early Middle Ages, has always been the city’s beating heart—not only from a religious perspective but also as a cultural and artistic center. Home to numerous high-ranking cardinals, including Pope Pius V, a key figure in the Counter-Reformation, the palace reached its peak splendor in the early 20th century, thanks to the work of Monsignor Joseph Bernard Doebbing.
Born in Germany in 1855, Doebbing became the Bishop of Nepi and Sutri in 1900. A man of faith and great culture, he stood out for his dedication to the restoration of the episcopal palace and for promoting significant initiatives aimed at educating young people, the clergy, and the local community. He passed away in Rome in 1916, leaving a lasting legacy within the community.
After years of abandonment and decay, the episcopal palace has finally been given new life. Between 2010 and 2018, thanks to the commitment of the Diocese of Civita Castellana and funding from the Lazio Region, the building underwent a meticulous restoration and was transformed into a modern museum.
The renovation and conversion project, overseen by Roman architect Adolini, masterfully blended the palace’s historic charm with an innovative spirit, creating a captivating exhibition space of approximately 1,000 square meters, spread across five levels. On the proposal of the mayor of Sutri, the museum was named after Monsignor Doebbing as a tribute to his invaluable contributions.
The Museum of Palazzo Doebbing preserves a rich heritage of artworks and archaeological finds that narrate the history of Sutri and its territory from the Roman era to the present day. The permanent collection, divided into various thematic sections, offers visitors a fascinating journey through the different eras that have shaped the identity of this ancient city.
Ammira l'Efebo del I secolo d.C., un'opera scultorea di grande pregio che testimonia la millenaria identità sutrina. Esplora la sezione dedicata all'arte romana, ricca di manufatti che raccontano la vita quotidiana e le tradizioni degli antichi abitanti della città.
Immergiti nella spiritualità e nella bellezza dell'arte sacra, contemplando preziose opere provenienti dal tesoro della Cattedrale di Sutri. Lasciati incantare da dipinti, sculture e oggetti liturgici che ripercorrono i secoli della fede cristiana a Sutri.
Passeggia nella galleria d'arte e scopri capolavori di maestri come Antoniazzo Romano, Sano di Pietro e Antonio da Viterbo. Ammira tele e tavole provenienti da diverse chiese della Diocesi di Civita Castellana, espressione del fervore artistico e culturale che ha caratterizzato il territorio nel corso dei secoli.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Museum of Palazzo Doebbing hosts numerous temporary exhibitions throughout the year, all included in the admission ticket. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history, art, and faith of this unique territory.
