Palazzo Correale (Correale Palace), Sorrento

Correale Palace (Palazzo Correale), situated in the picturesque town of Sorrento, is a remarkable symbol of the diverse architectural and cultural influences that have shaped the region over many centuries. Dating back to the 14th century, this historic building showcases a blend of styles reflecting its long history.

The exterior of the Correale Palace is immediately captivating, featuring a variety of small arched windows adorned with different shapes and designs, each representing a unique aspect of artistic expression and stylistic evolution. One notable feature is a striking Gothic-style window, reminiscent of the medieval origins of the palace. Additionally, the Neapolitan arched portal, decorated with Durazzo-Catalan ornaments, adds to the facade's charm and offers insight into the architectural trends of the palace's time.

Situated near Tasso Square's southeast corner, the palace transformed the Rococo era, best exemplified by its Majolica Courtyard, dating back to 1772. This beautifully crafted courtyard highlights the region's expertise in majolica and faience ware, echoing the grandeur of similar artworks found in Naples.

The history of the Correale Palace is as rich as its architecture. Originally serving as the refuge of Santa Maria della Pietà in 1610, it has been in private ownership since then. Nonetheless, visitors can still admire its beauty, including the architectural fantasia on the courtyard's back wall, entirely made of majolica tiles.

Upon leaving the palace, one is reminded of its unique place in Sorrento's architectural landscape by the distinctive arched windows on the facade, reminiscent of those found in nearby Veniero Palace, a 13th-century structure influenced by Byzantine and Arab styles.