Palatium Vetus, Medieval palace in Alessandria, Italy
Palatium Vetus is a four-story medieval palace on the western side of Piazza della Libertà, featuring trifora windows, frescoes, and stone decorations. Today the ground floor houses a foundation that presents art exhibitions spanning the 19th and 20th centuries.
The palace was built in the 13th century as the city's administrative seat. Over time it housed Spanish governors, representatives of the House of Savoy, and Napoleonic prefects.
The main hall displays painted shields bearing the city's coat of arms and emblems of prominent families from the late 13th century. These heraldic works reflect how local power and identity were expressed through visual symbols.
The foundation manages the building and offers virtual tours alongside physical exhibitions. It is helpful to check ahead about visiting times and current exhibitions before planning a visit.
A modern restoration by architect Gae Aulenti added a glass elevator and steel courtyard covering to the interior. This contrast between the medieval core and contemporary elements gives the palace an unexpected character.
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