's Palazzo della Ragione Verona, an imposing building located in the heart of the historic center, is a tangible testimony to the city's ancient grandeur and rich history. Built in the 12th century to house the new municipal magistrates, this square-shaped building with an internal courtyard is a point of convergence between the evocative Piazza dei Signori and Piazza delle Erbe.
The building, whose original structure dates back to before 1405, when Verona came under the rule of the Serenissima, stood on the foundations of the ancient Roman forum. The Palazzo's incredible visual impact has been shaped by centuries of changes, events, and restorations that have defined its current appearance.
Every corner of the Palazzo della Ragione evokes different eras in Verona's history. From the vestiges of the ancient Roman forum to the majesty of the Torre dei Lamberti, every detail tells a story of perseverance and transformation. The neoclassical facades, the work of great architects such as Giuseppe Barbieri and Camillo Boito, imbue the building with imposing elegance.
The Chapel of the Notaries
One of the jewels housed within the Palace is undoubtedly the Notaries' Chapel, located on the first floor. This is where the Torre della Masseria once stood, erected in the 15th century in honor of Saints Zeno and Daniele. Today, the chapel houses one of the most notable decorative complexes commissioned by the entire city community. This extraordinary artistic and historical heritage is a fascinating testament to the profound connection between Verona and its community.
The Palazzo della Ragione over the centuries
Over the centuries, the Palazzo della Ragione has been the center of the city's political power, housing institutions of vital importance to the Veronese community. Among these, the Cappella dei Notaia symbol of devotion and religious culture, conveying a sense of grandeur and solemnity.
With the advent of the Renaissance, the Palace was transformed into a courthouse, taking on new functions and adapting to the needs of the era. In the 16th century, major expansion and restoration works were carried out, and the Torre dei Lamberti, today the symbol of the city, was raised to 84 meters.
Until the last century, the Palazzo housed the city's courts. Subsequently, due to space limitations, the offices were moved elsewhere. The building remained abandoned for twenty years, until it underwent a final, yet crucial, restoration. Since then, the Palazzo has been used as an exhibition center, housing the prestigious Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery, which houses works of inestimable artistic value.
The Achille Forti Modern Art Gallery
Today, the Palazzo's main floor houses the Achille Forti Gallery of Modern Art, a collection of artworks spanning different eras and styles, offering visitors an extraordinary experience ofcontemporary art. A key focus of the collection is represented by the works of the Divisionists, a pictorial movement characterized by the use of small touches of color, applied separately and unmixed on the canvas. This technique created an effect of luminosity and brilliance, resulting in vibrant and lively works.
Among the artists represented in the collection, some of the most important figures in the Italian and European art scene stand out. Names such as Giuseppe Pellizza da Volpedo, Angelo Morbelli, Giovanni Segantini , and Vittore Grubicy de Dragon are part of the exhibition's heritage.
The Palace of Reason in Verona: Let's take stock
Verona's Palazzo della Ragione is one of the must-see places in the Veneto region. Located in one of the city's strategic points, it can be the starting point or destination for numerous tourist itineraries. To fully explore Verona, we recommend booking affordable accommodations smartly and safely.
