Palazzo del Principe

The building complex that overlooks via Pretorio and via Teatro was once the Prince’s Palace. The original nucleus, corresponding to the façade with arched windows, dates back to the end of the 15th century and was built by Rodolfo, founder of the Gonzaga di Castiglione branch. The building, enlarged during the 17th century, was the seat of government and became the city palace of the Gonzaga family. It was Prince Francesco who decided to renovate it, because he intended to move with his family to a more comfortable residence than the too austere and sacrificed one of the fortress. Since the time of Prince Francesco, the palace has undergone numerous interventions, so that it is difficult to recognize its elegant physiognomy from the Gonzaga era. In 1757, after half a century of abandonment, the building was renovated and enlarged by the Austrian government which installed the judicial offices and the Magistrates Court there. The audience hall of the Praetorian Palace was later used for theatrical performances and in the 19th century incorporated into the Teatro Sociale building. The restoration works brought to light the original structure of the atrium and some decorative elements of the rooms. On the facade you can still see parts of frescoes attributed to the school of Mantegna.

The Palace is not open to the public.