Palazzo Gessi, a magnificent architectural gem nestled in the heart of Faenza, Italy, stands as a testament to the grandeur of 18th-century neoclassical design. This splendid palace, located at the intersection of Corso Mazzini and Via Zanelli, has a rich history intertwined with the illustrious Gessi family, whose legacy continues to echo through its halls.
Designed by the renowned architect Giuseppe Pistocchi, Palazzo Gessi is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Its facade is a striking feature, subtly projecting in the center, embodying the tastes of its original commissioner. The ground floor is adorned with smooth rustication, seamlessly incorporating framed windows and an imposing entrance that beckons visitors into its storied past.
The piano nobile, or main floor, is a visual feast. Six pilasters grace the central section, their capitals a whimsical blend of cornucopias and Corinthian designs. The windows are framed with pediments and columns, adding to the building’s majestic allure. Above the central balcony, supported by lion heads, is an impressive trophy crest by Antonio Trentanove, a nod to the artistic flair that defines the palace.
Constructed in 1786 to commemorate the nuptials of Count Tommaso Gessi and the noblewoman Giuditta Bertoni, Palazzo Gessi is steeped in history. The palace's opulent interiors were completed in 1813 for another grand wedding, that of Count Antonio Gessi and the Marchesa Laura Amorini Bolognini. This occasion saw the creation of stunning frescoes by the artist Felice Giani, including two parietal scenes in the balcony room, considered among his masterpieces.
Palazzo Gessi has played host to several notable figures, including Pope Pius VII in 1814 and King Charles IV of Spain with his royal family in 1815. These visits underscore the palace’s historical significance and its role as a center of social and political life in Faenza.
The Gessi family, originally from Rome, settled in Faenza in the 14th century, deriving their name from their involvement in gypsum extraction in the Lamone Valley. Over the centuries, the family gained prominence, with one member being granted the title of Count by Francesco Farnese, Duke of Parma, in 1725. The family’s influence extended beyond Palazzo Gessi, with other notable properties including Villa Gessi in Sarna and estates in Felisio and Imola.
The Gessi family’s last resident, Antonietta Gessi, passed away in 1946, marking the end of an era for the palace. The subsequent sale of the property in the early 1960s to a real estate company nearly led to its complete demolition. However, thanks to the efforts of Italia Nostra and architect Ennio Golfieri, the palace was preserved, albeit in a reduced form.
Palazzo Gessi is not only an architectural marvel but also a treasure trove of art. The frescoes by Felice Giani, partially removed in 1971 and recently restored, offer a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the period. Antonio Trentanove’s statue of Hercules triumphing over the Hydra of Lerna, originally placed on the grand staircase, highlights the palace’s artistic significance.
In the 1840s, the palace’s side wing was transformed by Pietro Tomba, who created a remarkable elliptical room decorated by Antonio Liverani, featuring a lunette depicting the lake view of Villa Gessi in Sarna. Romolo Liverani, Antonio’s brother, also contributed to the palace’s cultural offerings by creating a puppet theater complete with painted backdrops.
Visitors to Palazzo Gessi can immerse themselves in its rich history, exploring the remnants of its past glory. Though the palace has undergone significant changes, its enduring charm and historical importance remain intact. The building serves as a reminder of Faenza’s cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of the Gessi family.
As you stroll through the streets of Faenza, let Palazzo Gessi transport you back to a time of noble grandeur and artistic brilliance. Its walls whisper stories of love, power, and resilience, inviting you to be part of its timeless narrative.
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