Casa Marini

Casa Marini is a late-medieval house in Guardiagrele, notable for its pointed stone portal and small courtyard. Local tradition identifies it as the site of the town's mint, where coins were struck under a privilege granted in 1391.

Why it matters

The building preserves an example of Guardiagrele's civil architecture and a local tradition linking the town to medieval coinage. In 1391, the king of Naples granted Guardiagrele permission to mint coins. The identification of this particular house as the mint remains traditional rather than documented.

What to notice

The principal feature is the ogival stone portal, topped by a triangular tympanum and opening into a small courtyard. Its restrained form contrasts with the more elaborate palaces along Guardiagrele's main streets and preserves the scale of a late-medieval urban residence.

Context and history

The minting privilege granted in 1391 reflects Guardiagrele's status in the Kingdom of Naples. The municipal tourism account associates Casa Marini with the mint where bolognini were struck, while the precise location remains a matter of local tradition. The house's pointed portal and courtyard preserve its architectural character within the historic centre.