Hall of the Zodiac at Palazzo Vertemate Franchi

The room stands out for the richness of its decoration. The walls are entirely covered with frescoes, while the ceiling is enhanced by a magnificent carved wooden covering, regarded as one of the artistic masterpieces of the palace. The large central coffer, distinguished by its refined interplay of carving and volume, is dominated by the figure of Fame, while the side panels depict Venus riding a chariot drawn by swans.

The room takes its name from the iconographic representations of the twelve zodiac signs, each depicted through its traditional symbol: animals, human figures or mythological creatures. Beneath each zodiac sign, the corresponding month is represented by male figures illustrating the principal agricultural activities of rural life, from work in the vineyards and the grain harvest to the grape harvest, chestnut gathering and the seasonal tasks of winter.

The painted decoration is also distinguished by numerous scenes inspired by classical mythology. The frescoes depict episodes from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, featuring figures such as Glaucus and Scylla, Tantalus and Pelops, Circe, Latona, Niobe, King Midas and Atalanta, within an elaborate decorative programme combining symbolic references, mythological narratives and elements of Renaissance humanist culture.

The quality of the frescoes has long been recognised by scholars, who have highlighted their vibrant colours, refined execution and careful use of relief effects, making the Hall of the Zodiac one of the most outstanding decorative spaces within the entire residence.

The fame of this room extended beyond the Valchiavenna as early as the beginning of the twentieth century. For the International Exhibition held in Rome in 1911, the hall was faithfully reproduced, with the permission of the owners, as one of the most significant expressions of Lombard art. This recognition bears witness to the historical and artistic importance of one of the most fascinating spaces within Palazzo Vertemate Franchi.