Torre della Pallata

The Torre della Pallata is a medieval landmark in central Brescia. Built in 1248 using material from Roman buildings, it combines a defensive tower with later civic functions and a Renaissance fountain at its base.

Why it matters

The tower records several practical needs of the medieval and later city. It defended the San Giovanni gate, held the municipal treasury, stored grain and served as a prison. The fountain added another role, presenting an allegorical image of Brescia and its territory.

What to notice

The massive square structure incorporates reused ancient stone. Its belfry belongs to a later phase, while the fountain creates a marked contrast with the tower's austere masonry. Brescia appears as Pallas Athena above reclining figures associated with the territory's waters. These have been interpreted as the rivers Garza and Mella or the lakes Garda and Iseo.

Context and history

The tower rose along the existing medieval defences and was subsequently adapted for civic storage and custody. A bell stage was added during the fifteenth century. In 1596 Antonio Carra executed the fountain to Pietro Maria Bagnadore's design, giving the older structure a new mythological and civic expression.