Ever wondered what secrets lie behind that diamond-patterned facade? That’s Palazzo Turati. It stands here on Via Meravigli. It is a testament to Milan’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
Palazzo Turati is not just another pretty building. It’s a story etched in stone. The palazzo was commissioned by Francesco Antonio and Emilio Turati. They were successful cotton merchants from Lombardy. They wanted a palace that reflected their wealth and status.
The Turati brothers hired architect Enrico Combi. He drew inspiration from the Palazzo dei Diamanti in Ferrara. Construction finished in 1876. The result was this magnificent Neo-Renaissance palace.
Notice the distinctive diamond-shaped rustication. This covers the entire facade. It imitates the Palazzo dei Diamanti. The only exceptions are the Serlian windows. Also, the pilasters and balconies break up the pattern. The windows are crowned by decorated pediments.
Step inside Palazzo Turati. Imagine the bustling activity within its walls. The interior courtyard is inspired by the Lombard Renaissance style. Stone columns and red marble bases create a sense of timeless elegance.
The interiors are lavishly decorated. The “Sala di Flora” is also called the blue sitting room. It is upholstered in silk velvet. Mirrors, decorations and sculptures adorn the room. Lodovico Pogliaghi created the sculptures. Mosè Bianchi added the frescoes.
Then there’s the “Sala di Prometeo”. It gets its name from the large Neo-Renaissance fireplace. A sculpture of Prometheus by Pogliaghi sits above the fireplace.
Don’t forget the ballroom. Giuseppe Bertini frescoed the walls with “Il Ballo”. Luigi Cavenaghi decorated the ceiling. It is a testament to the artistic talent of the era.
For much of the 20th century, Palazzo Turati housed the Famiglia Meneghina. This was a famous Milanese private club. It was a hub of social and cultural activity.
But the story of Palazzo Turati goes back even further. Beneath the palace, in the basement of the Chamber of Commerce, lie the foundations of the Roman theater of Milan. Imagine the gladiators who fought here centuries ago.
In 2016, an Azerbaijani fund bought Palazzo Turati. It is now a venue for events and exhibitions. The palace continues to play a vital role in Milan’s cultural landscape.
Palazzo Turati has stood the test of time. It has witnessed wars and social changes. It has adapted and evolved. Today, it stands as a reminder of Milan’s past and a symbol of its future. A building that embodies the spirit of Milan.
So, as you stand before Palazzo Turati, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and history. Imagine the people who have walked through its halls. Consider the events that have taken place within its walls. You are experiencing a piece of Milanese history.