The stunning fourteenth century frescoes in Padova’s Palazzo della Ragione

You can’t miss this spectacular structure on your visit to pretty Padova. I’ve already written about the picturesque Piazza della frutta and Piazza delle erbe, on which this palace is located.

The bottom of the Palazzo della Ragione (The Palace of Reason) was dedicated to a covered market built in 1166, but the upper section had been a project anticipated since 1218. It was finally constructed in 1306-1309 by architect and local son, Giovanni degli Eremitani, and served as a court and council chamber.

The space, known as “il Salone”, measures 80 by 27 meters, and is an impressive 40 meters tall. It is believed to be the largest, undivided medieval halls still surviving in Europe.

The walls were originally decorated by frescoes by Giotto (1266-1337, see my earlier post about Giotto’s frescoes in Padova’s Cappella degli Scrovegni), but had to be repainted after the great fire of 1420. It is breathtaking, and not surprising that it was included among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

The fresco cycle was painted by Paduan artist, Nicola Miretto – 333 frescoed panels cover the massive walls. Miretto would work with Stefano da Ferrara and other artists to complete this ambitious project. The result is a rare, medieval astrological cycle stretching around the room, providing precious details about medieval life, as well as allegories of justice and rights.

The colors and attention to details will keep you lingering in this space for a long time, admiring the dizzying array of medieval art.

There is so much to admire when you’re in Padova, but be sure to make time for the spectacular Palazzo della Ragione on your next visit.