The Bishop's Palace closes off one side of the current Piazza Sant’Antonio Maria Zaccaria with its elegant façade. This square was once the site of the ancient platea piscaria, or fish market, which is also overlooked by the southern transept of the Cathedral, built in 1343, and two sides of the imposing Baptistery. Adjacent to the Cathedral, a gate closes off the ancient Camposanto dei Canonici, which preserves in its basement, accessible by means of a staircase, a fragment of a mosaic floor dating back to the 11th century.

The palace, completely rebuilt by the neoclassical architect Faustino Rodi starting in 1793 at the behest of Bishop Omobono Offredi, is not only the bishop's residence but also houses the Museo Diocesano, which contains over 100 works of art displayed in a thematic itinerary that recounts the history, art and spirituality of the entire Cremona area.

Ph. Salvo Liuzzi Photo