Ducal palace

The grand architectural complex of the Palazzo Ducale, or Ducal Palace, is one of the largest in Europe. It was built as the residence of the rulers of Mantua. All buildings included in the palace complex are interconnected by numerous galleries, decorated with picturesque gardens and courtyards.

The oldest parts of the palace were built at the end of the XIII century - it was then by order of the captain of the people Guido Bonacolsi that the Palazzo del Capitano and the "Big House" were erected. These two buildings form the so-called “Old Courtyard”. Some time later, between 1395 and 1406, the architect Bartolino da Novara erected nearby the Castle of St. George, which from the middle of the XV century became the residence of the family of Ludovico II Gonzaga (Duke of Nevers).

In the northeast tower is the famous "Marriage Room", which was painted in frescoes in 1465-1474. On the ground floor there is also the first office and the first "grotto (personal apartment) of the wife of Francesco II Gonzaga - Isabella d'Este". In 1480-1484, a new courtyard was built, the author of which was the architect Luca Fancelli. The "New Court" included the Ducal Apartments, which were later expanded and decorated. At the end of the XVI century, the Church of St. Barbara was built in the palace. The palace remained home to the family of the Dukes of Gonzaga for several centuries, from 1328 to 1707.