La Bonissima, Medieval statue at Palazzo Comunale, Modena, Italy
La Bonissima is a limestone and marble statue positioned at the corner of Palazzo Comunale, overlooking the central square. Standing at about 137 centimeters tall, the figure rises distinctly into the medieval city center.
Created in 1268, the figure was closely tied to overseeing weights and measures in medieval Modena's trade activities. It stood as a guardian over commerce on the square where buyers and sellers conducted business.
The statue embodies values of fairness and honesty that remain central to how locals view their community. These ideals are woven into everyday civic life and public discourse in the city.
The statue sits at the corner of Palazzo Comunale on Piazza Grande and is easily visible from multiple viewpoints. Visitors can spot and photograph it clearly from anywhere on the central square.
Local tradition holds that the figure represents a noblewoman who distributed food to citizens during a severe famine. This legend transforms the work into more than just a trade symbol, making it a reminder of generosity during hardship.
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