Historical building, Sasso Marconi
The beautiful Palazzo de' Rossi is located in Pontecchio Marconi, about 15 kilometres away from Bologna.
The building was built in the second half of the 15th century at the behest of Bartolomeo de' Rossi, a senator originally from Parma, with a twofold purpose. On the one hand, he wanted to build a representative residence for himself and noble guests visiting Bologna, in an area strategically close to the current capital. In his palace, De' Rossi actually hosted personalities such as Torquato Tasso and Pope Julius II, the latter in 1507.
On the other hand, he wanted to exploit the close Reno river and its waters, extremely important for agricultural activities and for the operation of the mills and other craft activities that sprang up next to the palace. A small village was built alongside Palazzo de' Ross consisting of the farmers' residences, artisan workshops and stables.
Crossing the canal and entering the palace through the portal overlooking the borgo, you get inside the building's fascinating inner courtyard. Climbing the staircase to the first floor you can admire an Italian garden and the splendid late Gothic façade of the palace.
Over the centuries, the palace has undergone various modifications and restorations, particularly in the 18th and early 20th century, when architect Rubbiani tried to restore the palace to its original appearance. Today, Palazzo de' Rossi is used as a location for weddings and events, while the hamlet houses a hotel, some tourist flats and a restaurant.
