The Palazzo dei Banchi in Bologna was designed by Vignola and built from 1565 to 1568, commissioned by the commune and merchants. The introduction calls the style Renaissance, and the text notes Mannerist window placement. A portico roofing the Piazza front dates to 1412, earlier than the facade. The text names no materials or dimensions.
The asymmetric facade has 15 rounded arches, two larger ones leading to alleys, and monumental Composite pilasters flanking every arch. The window rhythm differs on each floor, which unifies the complex visually. A portico called the Pavaglione connects it to the Archiginnasio.
Before the 16th century the site held a jumble of houses and shopfronts, and bankers did money-changing and lending business, called banchi, under the porticos. A silkworm fair here in 1449 gave the Pavaglione its name. The building now mixes businesses and apartments. The article gives no hours.
Comments