The equestrian statues are considered some of the finest examples of Baroque bronze casting in Italy.
Construction of the Palazzo Gotico began in 1281 as a symbol of the city's independent status.
The ground floor of the Palazzo Gotico consists of an open loggia with pointed arches intended for public gatherings.
The two bronze statues were commissioned to honor the Farnese dynasty, who ruled Piacenza for over two centuries.
Piazza dei Cavalli is trapezoidal in shape, a design feature common in medieval Italian town planning.
Piazza dei Cavalli is the primary central square of Piacenza, Italy, named for the two bronze equestrian statues that dominate the space. The square features the Palazzo Gotico, a 13th-century town hall built with a distinctive Ghibelline-style crenelated roof. The two bronze statues, created by Francesco Mochi in the 17th century, depict Ranuccio I Farnese and Alessandro Farnese, Dukes of Parma and Piacenza. The square serves as the historical political and civic heart of the city. The architectural layout reflects medieval urban planning, serving as a hub for local markets and public life for centuries. Surrounding buildings represent a blend of brickwork typical of the Emilia-Romagna region and various historical stylistic influences. The square remains an open pedestrian-centric space that links the historic city core.
The center of the square looking toward the Palazzo Gotico, allowing both horse statues to be framed in the foreground.
Walk the full perimeter of the Palazzo Gotico to observe the contrast between the marble ground level and the brick upper facade.
Visit the local food shops in the narrow alleys branching off the square to taste traditional Piacenza salumi.
View the statues from the opposite side of the square to fully capture their dynamic, twisting poses.
Do not mistake the modern commercial center of the city for the historic square, which is specifically identified by the two bronze horse statues.
