Sinalunga’s Praetorian Palace is an imposing and history-laden piece of architecture located in the heart of the town’s historic center. Dating back to the 14th century, the palace was the centerpiece of medieval power in the area, having served as an administrative seat, a court of law and even a prison until the early decades of the 20th century.
The façade that presents itself to visitors today is characterized by red brick and dates back to the renovation that took place in the 16th century; it replaced the previous original façade that was made of pietra serena, a material widely used at the time for buildings of this caliber.
One of the most emblematic elements of the Praetorian Palace is its bell tower, built in 1563 following the example of the famous Mangia tower in Siena. This tower stands as one of the most recognizable symbols of Sinalunga, standing out in the panorama of the historic center and also from the valley below.
Fascinating is the historical narrative that can be sensed by looking at the coats of arms affixed to the facade and inside the building. These depict the coats of arms of the podestà-the figures who in turn governed the locality-spanning a time span from 1468 to 1623. Prominent among these coats of arms is the Medici coat of arms, a symbol of Florence’s power over the area, which was affixed in 1559.
Also outside the Palace, there are historical curiosities that deserve attention, such as the ancient pillory placed to the right of the facade, once used to expose to public derision those who had committed blameworthy acts. Another peculiarity is a grating bent into a horseshoe shape, observable from Via Mazzini, which, according to a local legend, was fashioned into that shape by the people of Sinalunga to allow prisoners to be watered, thus testifying to a form of humanity even toward those who were punished by the law.