Palazzo San Crispino

Palazzo San Crispino is a neoclassical building on Piazza Trento e Trieste that displays marble medallions across its facade. These medallions portray important figures from Ferrara, with a central portrait of poet Ludovico Ariosto as the focal point.

The building was founded in the 8th century when Emperor Charlemagne granted land to the Shoemakers' Guild. Later it underwent significant transformations, including use as a faculty of the university in Ferrara.

From 1461 to 1567, the palace served as the Faculty of Letters for the University of Ferrara before transforming into an oratory.

Today the space houses a bookshop and commercial areas after extensive renovations. The work carefully preserved medieval wooden ceilings and workshop elements that reflect the original craft heritage.

In the 1600s, local laws forced Jewish residents of the ghetto to attend sermons held inside. This requirement led to the construction of separate entrances designed to accommodate this mandatory practice.

Location: Ferrara

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Address: Piazza Trento Trieste

GPS coordinates: 44.83483,11.62123

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:46