A City to Show off, a City to Defend – Michele Sanmicheli and Palace Architecture in 16th-Century Verona

This article explores the civic architecture of Michele Sanmicheli (1484–1559) in Verona, a city that became the central stage of his mature career. Focusing on four major palace projects – Palazzo Canossa, Palazzo Pompei, Palazzo Bevilacqua, and Palazzo Onori – the study traces the evolution of Sanmicheli’s architectural language from classical discipline to mannerist complexity. It highlights his ability to reinterpret antique forms within the local traditions of patronage and the spatial dynamics of Renaissance Verona. Special attention is given to the symbolic program of the façades and their representational function within the urban fabric. Sanmicheli emerges as a pivotal figure linking classical legacy with early modern approaches to architecture and city-making. The paper also reflects on his reception in both regional and transregional contexts.