Bonaffari Palace is one of the few homes remaining of those originally built by the Carraresi family and its collaborators. It is situated in a central position on Piazza del Duomo, immediately in front of the basilica. The original exterior architectural character can not be determined: the current appearance of the building results from 20th century restorations that freed it from a heavy over-layering of 16th century interventions. The interior courtyard presents an original and interesting development of three orders of superimposed loggia. In 1370 the building belonged to Jacobello da Milano, in 1381 passing to Baldo dei Bonaffari di Piombino, a student of law at the University of Padua, later jurist and counsellor to the Carraresi family. Baldo dei Bonaffari was entrusted with delicate ambassadorships, including missions to the Visconti, and achieved distinction for his integrity and loyalty to Francesco Novello. Francesco rewarded him by favouring his marriage to the wealthy Sibilia de Cetto. Together with his wife, it was Baldo dei Bonaffari that planned, financed and completed the construction of the Hospital and Church of St Francis.
Are you a local? What do you think about Casa Bonaffari?
Login to suggest it!