Palace of the Captains

The Palazzo dei Capitani in Malcesine, located in the heart of the village and just steps from the shores of Lake Garda, is a historical monument of rare beauty. Declared a national monument in 1902, it now houses the town hall and the library of Malcesine, confirming its lasting role in the community’s life.

Built between the 13th and 14th centuries by the Scaligeri family, the palace stands on foundations dating back to Roman and Romanesque times. After being reduced to ruins for unknown reasons, it was purchased and beautifully rebuilt in Venetian style by Francesco Mercanti in 1473, later becoming the residence of the Captain of the Lake.

Over the centuries, the palace has undergone several transformations and restorations, the most recent of which took place in 2007. This restoration focused on recovering the wall paintings and reinforcing the structural stability of the ground and first floors.

Upon entering the ground floor of the Palazzo dei Capitani, visitors are welcomed by a large hall adorned with frescoes depicting historical symbols and noble coats of arms. This floor once housed guards and storerooms.

The garden, accessible through the eastern portal, is a peaceful space overlooking the lake—once the docking point of the “ganzarina,” the Captain’s boat.

The first floor features a noble hall with Venetian windows and a beautifully decorated coffered ceiling, embellished with noble crests and intricate floral designs. The hall is further enriched by a painted cornice with grotesques, cherubs, and decorative elements.

The second floor was once used by servants and the chaplain, reflecting the building’s social and functional hierarchy.

In summary, the Palazzo dei Capitani in Malcesine is a magnificent example of Gothic and Venetian architecture. More than just an architectural jewel, it is a vibrant place filled with culture and history, continuing to fascinate and inspire visitors from around the world.