Palazzo degli Anziani

In the heart of Pistoia, a charming Tuscan town known for its rich history and vibrant culture, stands the Palazzo degli Anziani. This Gothic-style stone palace, also referred to as the Palazzo del Comune, della Comunitá, or del Giano, is a testament to the architectural and civic spirit of medieval Italy. For centuries, it served as the city hall and now houses the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica, drawing visitors into a world where history and art intertwine.

The Historical Tapestry of Palazzo degli Anziani

The story of the Palazzo degli Anziani begins in 1295 when Giano della Bella was the potestà of Pistoia. The decision was made to establish a residence for the magistrates or elders of the city. Prior to this, they were housed in a palace on via di Sracceria. The current location, near the magnificent Pistoia Cathedral, was chosen after acquiring land and houses from various local families, including the Bellanti, Lazzari, and Cremonesi.

By 1345, the construction of the three grand arches on the ground floor was underway, and the great hall on the main floor, known as the piano nobile, was taking shape. The construction was completed in 1353, featuring elegant mullioned windows that still capture the eye of every passerby. The façade proudly displays the Medici coat of arms and Pistoia's own emblem, a red and white checkerboard pattern upheld by a bear—a symbol of resistance against the Florentine Lion.

Legends and Lore

Adding to the intrigue of the Palazzo is the marble bust positioned to the right of the central façade window on the piano nobile. It is said to represent Filippo Tedici, infamous for betraying Pistoia by selling it to the Lucchese condottiere Castruccio Castracani. After Castracani's death, Tedici met a grim fate, killed and decapitated in battle. However, some believe the bust and accompanying keys might actually represent a member of the Grandoni family, known for their historical confrontation with Pisa. This enigmatic figure has been part of the Palazzo's lore since before 1345.

A Measure of Time

On one of the palace walls, visitors can find an intriguing historical artifact: the length of a Florentine Braccio, the unit of measure used in Tuscany before the Napoleonic era introduced the metric system. This tangible piece of history offers a glimpse into the everyday life of medieval Tuscany, where trade and commerce were dictated by such measurements.

The Museo Civico d'Arte Antica

Since 1922, the Palazzo has been home to the Museo Civico d'Arte Antica, a treasure trove of art spanning nearly six centuries. Among its notable collections are works like St Francis and his Miracles by the Maestro della Croce 434, attributed to Coppo di Marcovaldo, and Nicola Pisano's St Francis receives Stigmata, a bas relief from around 1270–1275.

The museum also houses masterpieces such as Mourning the Dead Christ (1310) by Lippo di Benivieni and Holy Conversation by Lorenzo di Credi, painted before 1510–1512. Visitors can marvel at Madonna della Pergola by Bernardino Detti and the dramatic Apollo and Marsyas by Cecco Bravo. The collection extends into more recent history with works like Murder in Venice of Lorenzino de' Medici, painted between 1837 and 1840 by Giuseppe Bezzuoli.

A Journey Through Time

Exploring the Palazzo degli Anziani is like stepping into a time capsule. Each stone and sculpture tells a story, from its origins as a civic hub to its current role as a guardian of art and history. The building itself, with its Gothic arches and historical symbols, invites visitors to ponder the rich tapestry of Pistoia's past.

A Cultural Landmark

Beyond its architectural beauty and historical significance, the Palazzo degli Anziani stands as a cultural landmark in Pistoia. It was once the meeting place of the Pistoian Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts, from its foundation in 1803 until 1811. This connection to the intellectual pursuits of the past further enriches its legacy.

In conclusion, the Palazzo degli Anziani is not just a building; it is a living monument to Pistoia's history and culture. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this iconic palace promises a journey through centuries of Tuscan heritage, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.