Arco del Torrazzo, Renaissance city gate in Crema, Italy
Arco del Torrazzo is a Renaissance city gate that connects Piazza del Duomo with Via XX Settembre through a tall stone passage. The structure displays architectural features of the period, including decorated windows and a facade with distinct details on each side.
The gate was built around 1520 and received the lion of Saint Mark on its outer face in 1525, marking Crema's connection to Venice. This addition signified the city's alignment with Venetian power at that time.
Two statues crown the arch: Saint Victorian in military dress with a sword and Saint Pantaleon, the city protector. These figures reflect the religious and military traditions that shaped the town's identity.
The interior contains an archive room in the upper section, accessible by internal stairs. This space was formerly used for notarial documents and provides insight into the gate's administrative function.
A clock mechanism operating since 1575 still functions on this structure today. This enduring timepiece demonstrates the craftsmanship invested in the gate's original construction.
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