The historical centre of the city of Mantova, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been selected for further research. Here we can find the common north-Italian archetypes, such as the Gothic lot, the extended building typology, the Palazzetto and the courtyard building. These masonry heritage townhouses are crucial for preserving the historical identity of this Italian heritage. This territory is strongly linked to the presence of the Mincio River, which determines the borders of the historic centre. This area’s history goes back to the Etruscan era and had a significant turn later on, thanks to the noble families who took power in the city. Especially in the Renaissance, under the Gonzaga rule, the city expanded further south, reaching the third wall circle. At the beginning of the 18th century, the city of Mantova came under Austrian rule and was thus transformed into a military fortress. At the beginning of the 20th century, old neighbourhoods, convents and churches which have been abandoned for some time were demolished to make space for industry and housing. These historic districts were replaced by large new buildings, built in the rationalist style characteristic of that time. Some palaces were destroyed during the Second World War, which resulted in the 60s in a recovery process. Linked to the industrial development of the city, new residential neighbourhoods were constructed, and the city extended beyond the river.
Archetype: Gothic lot The Gothic lot consists of narrow, three-story houses with a curtain wall facing the street. The facade typically includes a side entrance, one or two ground-floor windows, and two or three larger windows on the upper levels, often asymmetrically arranged. Behind the house, a courtyard served as a space for household activities and, historically, a latrine. Case Study: GIULIO ROMANO
Archetype: Extended The merging of several Gothic lots created the Extended building typology, which retained the simple facade and internal symmetry, but with an additional entrance for carriages. Case Study: LEONARDO
Archetype: Palazzetto Larger versions—like the Palazzetto—boasted wider facades, a greater entrance, and a longer layout, again with the presence of an internal courtyard in the back. The Palazzetto is clearly intended for the higher class, with a noble floor to welcome guests, more decorated facades and elegant balconies and facades on the internal side. Case Study: MONTANARA
Archetype: Courtyard Significant buildings are also the Mantovan courtyard houses, which feature an expansive room layout around a large courtyard, which is accessible from the street. This archetype is erected with solid brick structures, with multiple levels, including basements and mezzanines. Case Study: VESCOVILE