Praetorian Palace
The Palazzo Pretorio is a symbol of the rich history of the Val di Scalve. Today, as at the time of its construction, the Palace houses the Scalve Mountain Community.
From the year 1000 until the end of the 18th century, the valley was governed by the Comunità Grande di Scalve, composed of representatives from the vicinie (groups of families). In addition, the Podestà administered justice, but was appointed from outside the valley to ensure impartiality.
On January 9, 1375, representatives of all the families in the valley gathered at the ancient Pieve di Scalve and decided to build a house facing Piazza del Malconsiglio to serve as the new residence of the Podestà. It seems that the name of the square derives from “mael,” a Lombard term used to indicate the place where assemblies were held.
The first nucleus of the Palazzo Pretorio was built in just a few years and underwent various modifications over the centuries. In 1563, the first expansion included the construction of new prisons, a striking example of the severity of justice at the time. The only contact with the outside world was through a small barred window with double grates, through which prisoners received their daily rations.
From the entrance of the Palace, a stone staircase leads to the stunning audience hall, completed at the end of the 16th century. The hall features a monumental fireplace, and its walls are decorated with several layers of frescoes displaying the family crests of some of the Podestà who governed the valley.
The final expansion of the Palace took place in 1675, when the Palazzo Pretorio came to include the ancient portico of the “Malconsiglio.”
During the summer period, the Palazzo Pretorio is open to visitors, accompanied by local experts. Contact the Infopoint ARS tourist office for more information!
