Dome

Left facade facing the market square (Piazza dei Mercanti); A broletto is a city or town hall. The word implies a court of justice, and there are several "broletti" in northern Italy. (Palazzo della Ragione translates as "Palace of Reason" alluding to justice as well.) The base of the building was built in 1228 by commission of the mayor, Oldrado da Tresseno (or Dresano). The equestrian statue on the facade portrays Oldrado. The building was altered in the period under Austrian rule, and the upper floor and oval windows added. Later 19th century additions have been removed and the brick Medieval facade is visible again. Current restoration tries to preserve the Medieval building. Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.oxfordartonline.com/ (accessed 7/14/2010)