The Revoltella is the city's main art gallery, housed partly in the original palazzo of Baron Pasquale Revoltella — a Triestine shipping magnate who left his house and collection to the city on his death in 1869 — and partly in an adjoining modern wing designed by Carlo Scarpa and opened in 1992. The combination works surprisingly well.
The permanent collection covers 19th and 20th-century Italian and Central European art, with a strong emphasis on the figurative tradition in which Trieste operated before the art market moved elsewhere. There are good pieces by Triestine and Friulian artists who rarely appear in international survey shows. The Revoltella rooftop terrace has fine views over the gulf.
The museum is relatively uncrowded by Italian standards and makes for a relaxed morning visit.