Palazzina Marfisa d’Este
Museum | Ferrara | Emilia-Romagna | Italy
The Palazzina Marfisa d'Este in Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna, is an outstanding example of 16th-century architecture and a significant cultural heritage of the city. Originally built as a summer residence for Francesco d'Este, the son of Duke Alfonso I d'Este and Lucrezia Borgia, the building was inherited by his daughter Marfisa d'Este in 1578. Marfisa, a prominent art patron and supporter of the poet Torquato Tasso, lived in the Palazzina until her death in 1608.
Architecture and Interior
The Palazzina features a simple brick façade with large rectangular windows. Inside, there are rooms with ceiling frescoes depicting grotesque and mythological scenes. A notable artwork is the marble bust of Duke Ercole I d'Este from the 15th century. The rooms are furnished in a style reflecting the period, although the furniture is not original. Special rooms include the Sala delle Imprese, the Sala di Fetonte, the Sala dei Banchetti, the Sala Grande, the Sala del Camino, the Loggetta dei Ritratti, and the Studiolo.
Garden and Loggia
The original garden extended to the Palazzo Bonacossi and was surrounded by a loggia. The loggia, still preserved today, has a frescoed ceiling depicting a vine with grapes, from which animals like birds, squirrels, and monkeys can be seen peeking out. It is believed that Torquato Tasso's "Aminta" was first performed here.
Significance and Influence
The Palazzina Marfisa d'Este is a significant example of Renaissance residential culture, reflecting the lifestyle and aesthetics of the time. It offers insight into the life of the Este family and their connections to art and literature. Today, the Palazzina is a museum that allows visitors to experience the history and artworks of the d'Este family.
