Palazzo Pastore

Welcome to Palazzo Secco-Pastore, a historic palace located in San Martino Gusnago, a hamlet of Ceresara in the province of Mantua. This magnificent palace was built in the second half of the 15th century by the condottiero Francesco Secco, on the design of the architect Luca Fancelli, who left his unmistakable signature on the facade with blind battlements. Francesco Secco was a friend and confidant of the Marquis Ludovico III Gonzaga, and in 1451 he married Caterina, his natural daughter, from whom Paola was born, who married Marsilio Torelli, Count of Montechiarugolo. On June 15, 1491, the Duke of Ferrara Ercole I d'Este and Francesco II Gonzaga, Marquis of Mantua, were guests of Francesco Secco for a sumptuous banquet at this palace. The Marquis intended to reconcile with Secco, but the latter had secret contacts with Lorenzo de' Medici to switch to his service. For this reason, Francesco Gonzaga confiscated all his assets, including his palace in San Martino Gusnago, which was sold to Caterina Pico, wife of Rodolfo Gonzaga. At the beginning of the 16th century, it passed to the branch of "Gonzaga di Castel Goffredo" with Aloisio. The third son, Orazio Gonzaga, sold it to the Furga family at the end of the 16th century. It then passed into the ownership of the Orsini family, nobles of Bracciano, and at the end of the 18th century, it was purchased by the Pastore family, who modified the structure by adding two long wings to the original central nucleus. Today, Palazzo Secco-Pastore is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture, and it is open to visitors who want to explore its rich history and beautiful interiors. The palace has been carefully restored and renovated over the years, preserving its original charm and elegance. Visitors can admire the impressive facade with its blind battlements and the beautiful courtyard with its elegant loggia. Inside, the palace boasts stunning frescoes, intricate stucco decorations, and precious works of art from different periods. One of the highlights of the palace is the Sala degli Sposi, or the Bridal Chamber, which features beautiful frescoes depicting the wedding of Francesco Secco and Caterina Gonzaga. The room also has a beautiful coffered ceiling and elegant furnishings. Another must-see room is the Sala delle Stagioni, or the Room of the Seasons, which is decorated with frescoes representing the four seasons. The room also has a beautiful fireplace and a collection of antique furniture. Visitors can also explore the other rooms of the palace, including the Sala del Camino, or the Fireplace Room, the Sala delle Feste, or the Party Room, and the Sala della Musica, or the Music Room. In conclusion, Palazzo Secco-Pastore is a fascinating destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture. Its rich history and beautiful interiors make it a must-visit attraction in the province of Mantua.

Location: Ceresara

Address: via San Martino 25

Source: Wikimedia