Two starkly different themes have earned this beautiful old square its fame: superb Venetian architecture and a horrific terrorist attack in the 1970s.
Discover the architectural beauty of Piazza della Loggia, a central square in Brescia’s historic heart that provided the unlikely backdrop to an act of terrible violence. Renaissance and classical-style architecture adorn the square’s streetscape, making it a fascinating place to spend some time reflecting on the city’s history.
The piazza is dominated by the 15th-century Palazzo della Loggia. Note the Renaissance-era building’s additional adornments, which were designed by Jacopo Sansovino and Andrea Palladio in the mid-16th century. Today, the palace is used as Brescia’s Town Hall. Head to the southern end of the piazza to find the Monti di Pietà. See if you can find the Roman tombstones and other antique stonework embedded into the building’s 15th- and 16th-century façade.
To the east, spot the 16th-century Torre dell’Orologico (Clock Tower) above the Renaissance-style arcade. This enchanting structure features depictions of angels, as well as two bronze statues known as Macc dè lé Ure (the Hourly Dafties), who strike the hour on the Clock Tower’s bell. Nearby, the Monument to Bella Italia by sculptor Giovanni Battista Lombardi marks the spot where 18th-century revolutionaries destroyed the statue of the Lion of St. Mark.
The piazza witnessed more political upheaval in 1974, when far-right activists targeted an anti-fascist protest held in the square. The Strage di Piazza della Loggia (Piazza della Loggia Bombing) killed eight people and injured 102.
Take a seat at one of the piazza’s restaurants, cafés or gelato bars and spend some time people-watching. The piazza also has a collection of stores and some accommodations close by.
Piazza della Loggia is located in Brescia’s captivating Centro Storico. It is easy to access via the city’s subway and bus networks. The area is renowned for its narrow, winding roads and heritage streetscape, so is best explored on foot. Alternatively, you can rent a bike at one of the stations nearby. The piazza is open to visitors any time of the day for free.
