The Palazzo della Ragione is part of Mantua’s medieval civic complex. First mentioned in documents as the Palatium Novum, it was built between the 11th and 12th centuries to serve public and administrative functions, hosting assemblies and markets.
It underwent several modifications over the centuries — the Clock Tower was added in 1472, featuring a remarkable astronomical clock by mathematician and astrologer Bartolomeo Manfredi. In the 18th century, the façade was redesigned by Doricilio Moscatelli, and in the early 20th century, architect Aldo Andreani restored its medieval structure.
Since 1997, the Palazzo has served as a major exhibition venue for the Civic Museums of Mantua, hosting numerous art shows.
Today, it begins a new cultural chapter with the Sonnabend Collection, whose installation by Federico Fedel revitalizes the historic halls, blending medieval heritage with a contemporary museographic vision.
The Clock Tower, commissioned by Marquis Ludovico II Gonzaga and designed by Luca Fancelli (1472–73), houses the historic Manfredi Clock, which indicates not only the hours but also the zodiac signs, lunar days, and planetary influences.
Inside the tower, the Museum of Time displays original mechanisms and components from different eras — including the 15th-century crown and hands, copper zodiac symbols, and the Foucault pendulum.
Visitors can admire these artifacts and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Mantua from the top floor.
