A masterwork of Ligurian Art Nouveau architecture crowned by six copper spheres, the Palace of Piane showcases the visionary design of engineer Alessandro Martinengo and the ornamental vocabulary of early 20th-century European modernism.
At a glance
The Palace of Piane—locally known as the Palace of Palle for the six large copper spheres topping its roof—ranks among the finest examples of Savonese Liberty style. Its sculptural presence on Corso Italia combines the organic plasticity of Milanese Floral Art Nouveau with Viennese Secession influences and echoes of Piedmontese design.
History
Constructed between 1910 and 1911, the palace emerged from a collaboration between architect Alessandro Martinengo and Adolfo Ravignetti. Martinengo drew inspiration from the Floral movement championed by Milanese master Giuseppe Somaruga, infusing the design with contemporary European artistic currents.
What you see
The building’s defining feature is the six copper spheres perched atop a brazier-shaped structure—a whimsical crowning touch that gives the palace its popular alternative name. Polychrome majolica panels depicting anemones in blue fields enliven the façade, while false caryatids process along the entire perimeter, creating a dialogue between classical reference and modernist invention. The imaginative, almost organic plastic decoration reflects Vienna Secession aesthetics and the refined modernism of Turin architect Pietro Fenoglio.
Cultural significance
The Palace of Piane represents a peak achievement in regional Liberty architecture, synthesizing multiple European modernist currents into a singular, expressive vision. Its decorative programme—particularly the majolica work and sculptural embellishments—demonstrates how Italian Art Nouveau absorbed influences from Vienna, Milan, and Turin while maintaining distinct local character.
Key facts
- Address: Corso Italia 31, 17100 Savona
- Coordinates: 44.3049024, 8.4818208
- Architects: Alessandro Martinengo and Adolfo Ravignetti
- Date: 1910–1911
- Website: https://www.beniculturalionline.it/
Practical information
Opening hours and visitor access details are not listed; consult the official website or contact local cultural institutions in Savona for current visiting arrangements.
Getting there
The palace is located on Corso Italia in central Savona, Liguria. You can reach Savona by train (Stazione di Savona) or by car via the A10 autostrada. Once in the city centre, Corso Italia is easily accessible on foot or by local transport.
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Sources & resources
- Official site: https://www.beniculturalionline.it/
- Cultural Heritage Online: https://culturalheritageonline.com
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