Secco Pastore Palace

A 15C nucleus with two side buildings added in the 19C, the oldest parts of Palazzo Secco Pastore conserve features typical of castellated Gonzaga residences, the blind crenellation, tower chimneystacks and more being ascribable to Tuscan architect Luca Fancelli.

This was the country home of Francesco Secco (1423-1496), a Gonzaga commander and minister as well as the husband of Caterina, the illegitimate daughter of Marchese Ludovico. The list of noblemen who subsequently owned it includes the Marchese di Castel Goffredo Luigi Alessandro Gonzaga, Benedetto Furga, Baron Orsini of Bracciano and Count Giannini.

The building and its immense estate was purchased in 1789 by Francesco Alceo Pastore, whose heirs still own it. As well as the 15C frescoes adorning some rooms, the well-conserved 19C gallery and spaces are fascinating.