Palazzo della Ragione, Medieval courthouse in Piazza Trento e Trieste, Ferrara, Italy
Palazzo della Ragione is a medieval courthouse at Piazza Trento e Trieste in Ferrara, featuring Gothic architecture with pointed arches and distinctive stonework that defines its appearance. The building sits at a key intersection and showcases the characteristic style typical of civic structures from its era.
Construction took place between 1315 and 1325, establishing the building as Ferrara's main courthouse for centuries. A fire destroyed it in 1945, after which it was rebuilt to serve new purposes while retaining some of its original character.
The palace hosted important celebrations by the Este family, who used such events to display their power over the city. These gatherings made the building a stage for the ruling family to show their status and authority.
The building sits on a central plaza in the city center and is easy to reach on foot from various surrounding streets. The square location makes it simple to find and navigate, as it occupies a prominent position in the urban layout.
The building served as a place of execution during the rule of the Este family, with bodies of the condemned displayed from its windows. This grim practice served as both a demonstration of power and a warning to the city.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
