The Palazzo Taglieschi, together with the Palazzo del Marzocco, is the most important building in the Piazza Mameli in Anghiari. It is the seat of the State Museum of Anghiari.
A brief history of the Palazzo Taglieschi in Anghiari
The Palazzo Taglieschi is the result of the amalgamation of several medieval tower houses. The original building, except for a corner tower on the north side, opposite the Sant’Agostino Church, was made of wood. The rather small tower had a defensive function, but was also used as a warehouse for goods.
In 1307, the palace was partially destroyed in a fire. The reconstruction was probably commissioned by one Bartolomeo “Il Vecchietto” (the old man).
Later, the typical 14th century merchant’s house received a Renaissance facelift by Matteo Cane, a mercenary who represented the community. Cane, “dog,” was a nickname, and so the column at the corner of the building had a, now unrecognizable, dog’s head sculpted on it.
The State Museum, which resides in the building, displays fragments of a “Mary and Child” depicting fresco, which used to grace the front facade.
Useful information
Address: Piazza Mameli, s.n.c. 52031 Anghiari (AR). Tel. +39 0575 788001. Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ; Tuesday and Thursday 13 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed: Saturday and Sunday. Entrance fee: 4 Euro (discount: 2 Euro).