Piazza dei Mercanti

Piazza dei Mercanti preserves part of medieval Milan's civic centre between the cathedral and Cordusio. The Palazzo della Ragione, Loggia degli Osii and neighbouring buildings recall the close relationship between government, justice and commerce.

Why it matters

The medieval Broletto was larger than the surviving square. Its buildings concentrated public administration and commercial activity in a setting distinct from the cathedral precinct. Later rebuilding and changes to the surrounding streets altered its form without erasing its historical identity.

What to notice

The Palazzo della Ragione contains an upper hall above an open arcade. Its exterior carries an equestrian relief of Oldrado da Tresseno and the ancient boar relief associated with Milan's scrofa semilanuta legend. The Loggia degli Osii has contrasting orders of arches and the parliera balcony used for public announcements. Its upper sculpture represents the Virgin and patron saints, connecting civic architecture with the city's religious protectors.

Context and history

Work on the new civic centre began in 1228; the Palazzo della Ragione was completed in 1233. The Loggia degli Osii followed in 1316 under Matteo Visconti. Renaissance and later buildings added further layers. Beneath the Palazzo della Ragione, memorial plaques commemorate Milanese resistance fighters and deportees who did not return.