In the past, Piazza Mercanti was even larger than it is today, extending further north to what is now Via Mercanti. Back then, it was called "Piazza del Broletto" and was home to the "Broletto Nuovo," the administrative palace that stood in the center of the square. There were six entry points, each associated with a specific trade, from sword blacksmiths to hat makers.
One interesting fact is that until the late 19th century, Piazza Mercanti hosted the "Oh bej! Oh bej!" fair, which was the most important and traditional fair in Milan. Can you imagine the vibrant atmosphere and excitement that filled the square during those times?
Let me guide you through the four main buildings that surround Piazza Mercanti. First, we have the "Broletto Nuovo" or Palazzo della Ragione on the northeastern side. Built in 1233, this Gothic palace served as the administrative headquarters of the city.
On the southwestern side, you'll find Casa Panigarola, also known as "Palazzo dei Notai" or Notary's Palace. This Gothic palace, built in the 15th century, adds a touch of medieval charm to the square.
Moving to the southeastern side, we have Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine, a baroque palace designed by Carlo Buzzi in the 17th century. It replaced the former "Scuole del Broletto" or "Broletto Schools," which occupied the same spot.
You'll also notice the Loggia degli Osii on the southeastern side, which was built in 1316 as an administrative seat. This loggia includes the "parlera," a balcony from which the authorities would address the people.
Although not directly in the square anymore, the Palazzo dei Giureconsulti, a 16th-century building located in Via Mercanti, used to mark the northeastern side before the redesign. It's a fascinating piece of history with its tower dating back to the 13th century.
At the center of the square, you'll see a pit from the 16th century, adorned with two impressive columns from the 18th century. Interestingly, this pit was once positioned next to the Palazzo dei Giureconsulti, and nearby, a stone called the "pietra dei falliti" or "bankrupts stone" would expose those guilty of bankruptcy.
As you explore Piazza Mercanti, take a closer look at the various statues and monuments scattered throughout. For example, Palazzo della Ragione boasts two renowned reliefs: one depicts a boar associated with the legend of the scrofa semilanuta, and the other represents Oldrado da Tresseno, the man who ordered the construction of the palace.
Giovan Pietro Lasagna, a sculptor, created two statues in the square. One is dedicated to Ausonius and can be found on Porta Orefici, an entry point to the square. The other statue honors Augustine of Hippo and adorns the facade of the Scuole Palatine. Keep an eye out for Luigi Scorzini's statue of Ambrose on the Palazzo dei Giureconsulti as well.
Fun fact: In the film "Chiedimi se sono felice" by the comedian trio Aldo, Giovanni e Giacomo, they play a basketball game using the iron aureola of a saint's statue as the basket. However, I must clarify that this statue is purely a creation for the movie and not actually found in the square.
Now that you know the rich history and sights of Piazza Mercanti, let's continue our adventure to stop number 2: La Scala.
