Palazzo Pretorio, Medieval palace in Pistoia, Italy
Palazzo Pretorio is a three-story building with twin-arched windows and stone ornaments on its Neo-Gothic facade overlooking Piazza del Duomo. The structure blends medieval foundations with 19th-century architectural modifications.
The palace was built in 1367 as a residence for the Podesta and his administrative officials. It underwent major renovation in 1842 under architect Giuseppe Faldi's direction.
The building displays coats of arms of magistrates and officials from different eras, showing its role as the city's administrative and judicial center. These symbols cover the facade and interior, telling the story of those who worked here.
The building serves as the city courthouse with public access to the atrium and interior courtyard. Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience without court proceedings.
The internal courtyard contains original stone benches from the early 1500s where magistrates sat during public trials. These benches are a rare surviving record of how judicial proceedings were conducted in that era.
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