Palazzo della Carovana, Renaissance palace in Knights' Square, Pisa, Italy.
Palazzo della Carovana is a Renaissance palace located in Knights' Square in Pisa, distinguished by its symmetrical facade decorated with intricate scratched designs. These ornamental details feature allegorical figures and zodiac symbols and were created following Giorgio Vasari's design.
Between 1562 and 1564, architect Giorgio Vasari transformed the medieval Palazzo degli Anziani into the headquarters of the Knights of St. Stephen. This redesign made it a powerful symbol of the order's authority and prestige in the city.
The building displays sculptures representing Religion and Justice created by Stoldo Lorenzi, along with busts of the Medici rulers who led the order. These artworks reflect the ideals and leadership that shaped this institution.
The building currently serves as the main headquarters of the Scuola Normale Superiore with administrative offices, lecture halls, and historical archives. Visitors should be aware this is an active academic institution and access may be limited to certain areas.
The name Carovana comes from the three-year training period that initiates of the Knights of St. Stephen Order had to complete. This name directly connects the palace to the origins and practices of the order itself.
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