Palazzo Banci Buonamici, 18th-century palace in central Prato, Italy
Palazzo Banci Buonamici is an 18th-century palace extending along Via Ricasoli with a grand main facade and a secondary entrance on Via Cairoli. The structure forms a substantial architectural complex with carefully designed elevations.
The palace originated from residences of the Guazzaloti family, wealthy bankers who also owned green marble quarries, and was consolidated in 1787 by the Buonamici family. This union marked a transition to a new phase under Buonamici control.
The noble rooms display frescoes from the late 17th and early 18th centuries, created by artists including Cosimo Ulivelli. These decorations reveal the sophistication and wealth the family wished to project.
The building now serves as the headquarters of the Province of Prato and has undergone extensive restoration to recover its original architectural design. Visitors can view the facades and exterior from the street.
A pillar made of alternating bands of alberese limestone and green serpentine marble comes from an ancient loggia and represents a rare example of Prato's medieval marble craftsmanship. This remarkable piece shows the link between ancient architecture and later construction.
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