In 1855, the Archduke Massimiliano of Hapsburgs built this palace and lived here with his wife Carlotta del Belgio, until 1864. Though beautiful, this castle holds a tormented story behind it: Massimiliano was killed in Mexico in 1867, and Charlotte died insane in a Belgian castle, sixty years later. The Duke of Aosta, who lived there some sixty years later, died in Africa during World War II.

This is a beautiful medieval structure, first built at the end of the 13th century, and the subject of many additions and alterations over the years. Head up the stairs in Piazza IV Novembre and into the Sala dei Notari – completely covered in allegorical and biblical frescoes that date from the 13th century. Entering the palazzo from Corso Vannucci takes you to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria and to two further rooms: the Collegio della Mercanzia and the Collegio del Cambio. The Collegio della Mercanzia is beautifully panelled in wood, probably done by German craftsmen in the 15th century. The Collegio del Cambio has two rooms, the second with stunning late 15th century frescoes by Perugino.

Experience the impressive gates of Fès, as they will provide a great view of the city, and also memories of keyhole-perspective pictures taken at these very places. Pass both ancient and recent ones, on a walk from Bab Mahrouk (13th Century) to Bab Chorfa (14th Centure) and Bab Boujeloud (20th Century), and do also take in the peculiarities of the Old Town.