Palazzo Mazzola, nestled in the historic city of Asti, Italy, is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. This remarkable building, located at the intersection of Via Cardinal Massaia and Via Buon Pastore in the Rione Cattedrale, serves as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. With its storied past and architectural beauty, Palazzo Mazzola is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The origins of Palazzo Mazzola can be traced back to the 13th century, as evidenced by the distinctive arched windows that overlook Via Buon Pastore. The building's current form was completed in 1516, commissioned by the esteemed jurist and Count Palatine, Francesco Mazzola. Over the centuries, the palazzo has witnessed numerous transformations, each adding layers to its rich tapestry of history.
In 1710, Filippo Mazzola generously donated the palazzo to the charitable institution Opera Pia Buon Pastore, which provided shelter for at-risk youth and abandoned infants. This philanthropic legacy continued until 1979 when the institution was dissolved, and the palazzo became the home of Asti's historical archives.
Palazzo Mazzola stands alongside Palazzo Malabaila as one of the few remaining examples of Renaissance architecture in Asti. The building's irregular rectangular layout, complete with lateral wings, a northern courtyard, and a southern garden, showcases the architectural ingenuity of its time.
The façade of Palazzo Mazzola has undergone numerous renovations over the years. Originally, it was adorned with a grand marble cornice and gray stone moldings, which have sadly been lost to time. The main entrance was flanked by sandstone decorations, remnants of which still cling to the structure, whispering tales of its former grandeur. The second floor once featured cross-shaped (or Guelph) windows, with only one surviving to this day.
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The interior of Palazzo Mazzola is remarkably well-preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into its opulent past. The building boasts two courtyards, each with its unique charm. The first courtyard, adjacent to the palazzo, once featured a two-bay portico, which was walled up in the 20th century. The second courtyard, facing the garden, is adorned with a four-arched portico supported by brick columns and Doric capitals.
Inside, the corridors and 16th-century staircase are adorned with barrel vaults, exuding an air of timeless elegance. The ground floor's grand hall is particularly noteworthy, with its wooden coffered ceiling decorated with 17th-century paintings of the Mazzola family's mottos and emblems. On the noble floor, more coffered ceilings can be found, some still concealed by 19th-century vaults.
Palazzo Mazzola houses the historical archives of the city of Asti, a treasure trove of documents spanning from the 10th century to the present day. Among the oldest documents is one dating back to 947. The archives also include significant medieval documents such as the Codice Catenato, a 14th-century code of civil, criminal, and administrative laws, and the Codex Astensis, which details the city's public offices and noble families.
The archives also hold records from the Visconti and Orleanese dominations, as well as documents from the Napoleonic period and the Restoration. Additionally, visitors can explore a rich collection of photographs depicting people, places, and events from the late 19th century onwards, enriched by contributions from notable photographers like Secondo Pia and Angelo Gatti.
One of the rooms in Palazzo Mazzola is dedicated to the Palio di Asti, the city's historic horse race. Here, visitors can explore documents related to this iconic event, including the oldest record from 1275, which recounts the Asti victory over Alba and the subsequent Palio race held in mockery under Alba's walls.
The room also showcases the 1545 agreement between the city of Asti and Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy, preserving the privileges of the San Secondo festivities. Other documents include race participant lists from the 17th to the mid-19th century, a 1749 map of the racecourse, and Napoleonic records detailing prizes, along with posters and sketches from the 1929 to 1935 editions.
The Mazzola family has been a prominent presence in Asti since the 15th century, known for their noble lineage and notarial tradition. Among their notable members were Giacomo, buried in the cathedral, and Francesco, a frequent city councilor in the 16th century. Even after donating the palazzo to the charitable institution, Filippo Mazzola and his wife Maria Maddalena continued to reside in part of the building until their deaths, marking the end of the Mazzola lineage.
In conclusion, Palazzo Mazzola is not just a historical building; it is a living testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Asti. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the captivating history of this remarkable city.
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