Disputed between Milan and Venice, this figure of the Italian Renaissance joins the list of illustrious Bergamaschi: we are talking about Bartolomeo Colleoni, who was a valiant military leader of 15th-century Italy, militating in the service of the Sforza, Visconti and Serenissima (the Republic of Venice).
An introduction to this historical figure is necessary because the Luogo Pio della Pietà was the captain’s Bergamasque home and he stayed there when he was in town.
Having no male heirs, at the behest of Colleoni himself, in 1476 it was transformed into a charitable institution designed to take in marginalized and destitute women, a status it retains to the present day, and from which it precisely derives its name.
A small artistic heritage is enclosed within the walls of this building, which is located in the heart of Bergamo, Città Alta, and bears witness to the lesser-known spirit of patronage of Bartolomeo Colleoni, who was better known for his military exploits.
Also by his testamentary will, the interior of the Luogo Pio was enriched with remarkable frescoes and decorations, to this day partly preserved, and which you too can now visit.
On the entrance facade you can find original elements, such as the elegant sandstone and red marble portal, where the Colleoni coats of arms are still recognizable.
Just above the entrance, you will also see a fresco of a Christ in Pieta, a very recurrent theme in the 15th century, thus showing the religious character of the institution.
Crossing the small courtyard, we then advise you to enter the portion of the building that houses the museum and historical archives, which is also original.
Of the 5 halls that make up the building, at least the first two you will not be able to give up: they are the main rooms of the building, and in each of them you will be able to find some unmissable goodies.
It is believed that Room One was the reception area of the Luogo Pio.
One of the frescoes here depicts the Madonna and Child, St. Roch and St. Sebastian, painted as thanksgiving for the end of the plague epidemic of 1529.
On the next wall, you will meet ‘personally’ Colleoni himself, who is depicted adoring at the foot of the Crucifix, together with St. Francis.
Room Two, on the other hand, holds the most fascinating details.
It was intended for the meetings of the council of the Luogo Pio, here you will be able to admire a splendid lunette ceiling: you will find depicted the coats of arms of the Colleoni, the Apostles and other illustrious men who, together with the ten Virtues frescoed on the walls, were supposed to inspire the council members in their decisions.
Curiosities
The second floor is for the Historical Archives of the Pious Place, which holds all the ancient documents of the Council and the Board, from 1476 to the present.