San Domenico Complex

The complex was founded in the 13th century as a Dominican friary, with the church of San Giacomo Apostolo and its cloisters. After centuries of abandonment and military use, extensive restoration transformed it into the Musei San Domenico: today it is one of the region's most important cultural venues.

It houses the Pinacoteca Civica di Forlì, with works by Melozzo da Forlì, including the celebrated Pestapepe, and by Marco Palmezzano, the city's two great painters, alongside masterpieces by Guercino and a room dedicated to the sculpture of Antonio Canova, featuring his Hebe.

Every year, from February through summer, the church and halls host a major art exhibition that brings works from museums around the world to Forlì: it is the event that has made the city known far beyond Romagna. The deconsecrated church, with its soaring naves, is a spectacular exhibition space.

Allow at least two hours. Tickets and opening times vary with the current exhibition, so it's worth checking the website and, on busy weekends, booking ahead. The complex is a few minutes' walk from Piazza Saffi and the Rocca di Ravaldino.