SHARRYLAND
Merchants' Square
A hidden corner of medieval Milan, just a few steps from the Duomo
Where is
What it is and where it is Merchants' Square
In the heart of Milan, a stone's throw from the Duomo, is the charming Merchants' Square, which takes visitors back to medieval times. Once the nerve center of the city's political and commercial life, today the square is one of Milan's most charming and quiet corners. Its architecture is dominated by the Palazzo della Ragione, an imposing brick structure dating back to the 13th century, which was the city's courthouse. Other significant structures, such as the Loggia degli Osii, add charm with their ornate balconies and historic carvings.
Why it's special: a dip into medieval Milan
Piazza dei Mercanti is one of the few places in Milan where you can breathe in the atmosphere of the medieval city. The great arches of the Palazzo della Ragione, the sculptures and friezes of the Loggia degli Osii, and even the well in the center of the square tell stories of merchants, judges and notables, restoring a vivid image of the past. It is an obligatory stop for those who want to discover the hidden Milan, far from the most frequented routes, and immerse themselves in the historical soul of the city.
Not to be missed: Palazzo della Ragione
The Palazzo della Ragione enchants with its splendid architecture, starting with the wonderful and wide portico with seven arches, a space covered by the mighty vaults that support the palace. The facade then ascends with an exposed brick structure on which six three-mullioned windows open. There is also an upper floor with large oval windows, built in the 19th century. More or less in the center of the facade, just above the arches of the portico, stands the effigy of a knight: it is Oldrado da Tresseno, the podestà of Milan who wanted to build the hall above the portico.
A bit of history
The Merchants' Square was designed in the 13th century to become the commercial and political heart of Milan. In the past, the seats of merchant guilds and the city's main institutions were located there, making it the center of public and commercial activities.
Curiosity: a particular acoustic phenomenon
It is said that a whispering voice under one of the columns of the Palazzo della Ragione can be heard clearly in a far corner, creating a natural "wireless telephone" that enchants visitors to this day.
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