Palazzo Boschetti, nestled in the charming town of Schio, Italy, is a testament to the rich tapestry of history and architecture that characterizes this region. Situated on the bustling Via Cavour, this historic palace stands proudly opposite the Church of San Giacomo, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and elegant design.
Palazzo Boschetti's history is a fascinating journey through time, beginning in the 14th century as a noble residence. Originally, it was home to the Nogarola family, who served as vicars of Schio until the late 1300s. The only remaining trace of their presence is a family crest embedded in the rear facade, dated 1395, belonging to Antonio Nogarola. Known as the Casa Grande in historical documents, this residence was a symbol of prestige and importance, remaining with the Nogarola family until the end of the 16th century.
In the 17th century, the Boldù family took ownership, initiating a comprehensive restoration that bestowed the palace with its current architectural form. As the centuries rolled on, the building changed hands several times, passing to the Loredan-Ruzzini family and then the Priuli family in the 18th century. Eventually, in the early 1800s, it was acquired by Baldassare Rudella, whose daughter Maria further enhanced the building's lower sections to conceal the stone layers beneath. The Boschetti family later became its namesake owners, and in 1956, Vittoria Boschetti bequeathed the palace to the parish of Schio's cathedral.
Visitors to Palazzo Boschetti will find themselves captivated by its villa-like structure, a departure from typical urban palaces. The main building is distinctively isolated from adjacent constructions, featuring a grand, enclosed park at the rear. This park is a haven of tranquility, adorned with towering trees and charming outbuildings once used for storage.
The palace's facade is a study in elegance, with a central staircase leading to an arched entrance framed by a grand cornice. Above, the noble floor boasts a beautifully molded bifora with a balustrade balcony, while a tympanum decorated with small acroterial vases sits proudly at the top, featuring the Boldù family crest at its center.
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The building's side wings are asymmetrical, with the left side featuring four windows and the right just two, each adorned with stone moldings and sills. A decorative band of monochrome frescoes interspersed with oval windows completes the facade beneath the roofline. On the right wing, a taller structure, possibly the last remnant of the medieval building, resembles a small tower with aligned openings.
The rear facade is equally impressive, with a projecting portico defined by four Doric columns forming a terrace. Like the front, it features rectangular windows and elliptical attic openings, with the Nogarola family crest prominently displayed in the center.
The interiors of Palazzo Boschetti have undergone significant changes over the years, particularly during the 19th-century renovations by Rudella. Visitors are greeted by a spacious entrance hall leading to an honor hall on the noble floor, flanked by smaller rooms. The staircases are ingeniously integrated into the turreted side structure, adding a touch of medieval charm. Noteworthy features include Venetian-style floors and intricate ceiling stuccoes, offering a glimpse into the palace's opulent past.
The expansive park behind Palazzo Boschetti is a delightful retreat, enriched with towering trees and several structures once used for storage. The park extends to Via Arnaldo Fusinato, where an elegant entrance gate, adorned with columns topped by statues of Diana and Apollo by Angelo Marinali, welcomes visitors.
In conclusion, Palazzo Boschetti is not just a historic building; it is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of Schio. With its captivating history, stunning architecture, and serene surroundings, it offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this beautiful Italian town.
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