Origins and Foundation of the “Fraternita dei Laici”
The Fraternita dei Laici of Arezzo, one of the oldest Italian lay institutions, was established in the second half of the 13th century. Known initially as the Pious Confraternity of Mercy, it was founded in 1262 by decree of Bishop Guglielmino degli Ubertini for the purpose of assisting the poor and infirm. This lay congregation, inspired by religious and Marian motives, accumulated wealth and influence through donations and bequests. These funds enabled it to run hospitals and hospices, as well as perform welfare tasks. During the Lorraine period, it became the cultural and political hub of Arezzo. Today, the Fraternita dei Laici continues to play a social, cultural and welfare role, representing a pillar of the Arezzo community and preserving local history and traditions.
Design and Construction of the Palace
The Palace of the Fraternita dei Laici is an extraordinary example of architecture, reflecting centuries of history and art. Construction began in 1375 under the guidance of Florentine masters Baldino di Cino and Niccolò di Francesco. The Gothic facade was enriched between 1395 and 1396 with Spinello Aretino’s fresco “Christ in Pity.” In 1433, Bernardo Rossellino was commissioned to build the second floor and add the sculptural group “Madonna of Mercy with Saints Lorentino and Pergentino,” along with statues of “Saint Donato” and “Blessed Gregory.” Gothic architecture was harmoniously integrated with Renaissance elements, culminating in Giuliano da Settignano’s gallery in 1461. Between 1549 and 1550, Giorgio Vasari designed the bell gable, which houses Felice Salvatore da Fossato’s astronomical clock. The extension of the left facade was completed in the 17th century following a Vasari design, consolidating the eclectic beauty of the Palace.
Aesthetics of the Facade of the Palace
The facade of the Palace of the Fraternita dei Laici is a fine combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles, telling of Arezzo’s rich artistic history. In the center of the facade is a portal with strong splay, adorned by a lunette that originally contained Spinello Aretino’s fresco “Christ in Pieta,” now on display in the museum. Above the lunette, the sculptural group of the “Madonna of Mercy” with Saints Lorentino and Pergentino, by Bernardo Rossellino, dominates the scene. Statues of “Saint Donato” and “Blessed Gregory,” also works by Rossellino, flank the central group, adding a solemn dimension to the facade. In 1460, Giuliano and Algozzo da Settignano added a loggia with a balustrade with an amphora motif. Finally, the crowning of the facade, designed by Giorgio Vasari in 1552, includes a bell sail that houses the astronomical clock, giving a final touch of majesty to the entire building.
The Bell Tower and Ingenuity of the Astronomical Clock
The bell gable of the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici is one of the most distinctive features of the building, designed by Giorgio Vasari between 1549 and 1550. This bell tower houses a unique astronomical clock, created in 1552 by master clockmaker Felice di Salvatore da Fossato. Rare in Europe and unique in Italy for its size and functionality, the clock not only marks the hours, but also provides astronomical information such as the position of the Sun and Moon, following the 16th-century Ptolemaic conception. It connects three bells that ring at different intervals, with the central bell marking the hours. After several restorations, most significantly in 1998 and 2002, the clock regained its original functionality. The bell tower and astronomical clock are extraordinary testimonies to the technical and artistic ingenuity of the Arezzo Renaissance.
Audience Hall of the Fraternita dei Laici and the Creations of Parri di Spinello
The Audience Hall of the Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici is one of the building’s most evocative and historically rich spaces. Among the most relevant works is the “Majesty or Madonna of Mercy with Saints Donato and Gregory” from 1448, created by Parri di Spinello, son of the well-known painter Spinello Aretino. This altarpiece, commissioned by the Fraternity, depicts the Madonna and Child under her protective mantle, a recurring theme in the institution’s commissions. This room also houses other valuable frescoes, such as Spinello Aretino’s “Christ in Pietà,” which was moved here for conservation. The works by Parri di Spinello and his father reflect the Fraternita’s Marian devotion and their connection with the leading artists of the time. The Audience Hall, with its masterpieces, represents a place of great cultural and spiritual importance for Arezzo.
Artistic Treasures of the Museum of the Fraternita dei Laici
The Museum of the Fraternita dei Laici holds a vast and valuable collection of works of art that bear witness to centuries of history and culture. These collections come from donations, testamentary bequests and public commissions from the 14th to the 19th century. The treasures include paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and antique furniture, representing the rich artistic tradition of Arezzo and Tuscany. The collection includes works by prominent artists such as Spinello Aretino, Parri di Spinello, and Bernardo Rossellino. Particularly significant is the Bartolini Collection, consisting of some 6,000 works donated by Arezzo sculptor Ranieri Bartolini in the 19th century. These works are displayed on a rotating basis, offering visitors the opportunity to continuously rediscover the artistic heritage. The Museum of the Fraternita dei Laici is not only a custodian of historical memory, but also a vibrant center of culture and art, open to the public and scholars.
“Treasures” and Temporary Exhibitions in Arezzo
The Museum of the Fraternita dei Laici in Arezzo presents the permanent exhibition “Treasures of Arezzo,” which opened in 2017 and celebrates the city’s artistic and craftsmanship excellence. The exhibition includes an extraordinary collection of jewelry and unique works created by renowned Italian designers such as Ettore Sottsass, Giò Pomodoro, Dolce and Gabbana, and Salvatore Fiume. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum holds regular temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of Arezzo’s art, history, and culture. These exhibitions offer visitors the opportunity to admire works of great historical and artistic value that are not normally accessible to the public. Among the most celebrated exhibitions has been the display of the bronze statue of Minerva of Arezzo, found in 1541 and usually kept at the National Archaeological Museum in Florence.
The Historical Archives of the Fraternity
The Historical Archives of the Fraternita dei Laici is one of the most relevant documentary resources for the history of Arezzo. It preserves documents from the 14th to the 19th century, offering valuable evidence of the Fraternity’s activities and city life. The archive includes manuscripts, notarial acts, registers, letters and other documents that illustrate the Fraternity’s rich institutional and welfare history. This documentary collection is an irreplaceable source for scholars, researchers and local history enthusiasts. The Fraternity provides a study room open to the public where these documents can be consulted. The archives not only document the evolution of the Fraternity, but also reflect social, economic and political changes in Arezzo and Tuscany. Thanks to careful cataloguing and preservation, the Historical Archives continue to be a vital resource for understanding the past and enhancing the cultural heritage
The Current Role of the Palace of the Fraternity
Today, the Palace of the Fraternita dei Laici continues to be a cultural and social hub in the heart of Arezzo. After restoration and reopening in 2010, the Palace not only houses the Fraternity Museum, but also various cultural institutions such as the Arezzo House of Music (CAMU), a center dedicated to musical training and research that organizes concert activities. The halls of the palace host temporary exhibitions, cultural events and conferences, making this historic building a vibrant landmark for the community. A panoramic terrace, accessible to visitors, offers breathtaking views of Arezzo’s historic center and surrounding hills. The Fraternity’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the historical and artistic heritage is reflected in the many cultural initiatives that enrich the life of the city. The Palace of the Fraternita dei Laici thus remains an enduring symbol of Arezzo’s tradition, culture and innovation.