Palazzo degli Anziani, Medieval palace in Ancona, Italy
Palazzo degli Anziani is a 13th-century palace in Ancona with two completely different facades. The western side facing the sea rises seven stories, while the eastern side overlooking Piazza Stracca stands only two stories tall.
Construction began in 1270 under architect Margaritone d'Arezzo on a site where a Roman building once stood. This long history shows how important this location remained for the city across many centuries.
The palace served for centuries as the seat of Ancona's governing council and remains a symbol of the medieval republic's self-rule. Visitors can sense this administrative tradition as they move between the two distinct sides of the building.
A glass elevator has connected the seaside area to Piazza Stracca since 2014, allowing free public access between both sides of the building. This makes it easy to explore the two completely different perspectives of the palazzo.
The western facade combines pointed arches of white Conero stone in the lower levels with Romanesque windows featuring intersecting arches in the upper sections. This blend of architectural elements makes the structure unusual for its time.
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