Savona Courthouse
Judiciary building in Savona, Italy
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Savona Courthouse (Italian: Palazzo di Giustizia di Savona, lit. 'Palace of Justice of Savona') is a judicial complex located on Via XX Settembre in Savona, Italy.
| Savona Courthouse | |
|---|---|
![]() Interactive map of the Savona Courthouse area | |
| General information | |
| Location | Savona, Liguria, Italy |
| Coordinates | 44°18′22.9″N 8°28′38.9″E |
| Construction started | 1981 |
| Completed | August 1987[1] |
| Opening | 1992 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architects | Leonardo Ricci, Maria Grazia Dall'Erba |
The building, designed by architect Leonardo Ricci, is considered one of the most significant examples of modern architecture in Liguria.[2] It is appreciated for its bold and innovative volumes that stand out in the surrounding context, characterized by oblique lines, sharp edges, and large glass panels.[3][4]
It won the IN/Arch Award from the National Institute of Architecture in 1989.[5]
History
The new courthouse in Savona was designed by architect Leonardo Ricci following a national competition organized by the Ministry of Justice in the 1950s.[6] However, the timeline was significantly extended, and the construction was only carried out in the 1980s.[6][7] During the design process, Ricci was assisted by architect Maria Grazia Dell'Erba.[6][7] The courthouse was inaugurated in 1992.[6]
Description
The exposed reinforced concrete volumes intersect and overlap, giving the building a massive and monolithic appearance. The large glass windows, on the other hand, create a play of light and shadow that constantly changes, imparting a sense of dynamism to the building.[6] The structure is oriented to maximize natural lighting and features facades that are differently articulated according to the setting: an open front with glass facing the greenery and a more sculptural and symbolic side facing the city.[6][4]
The internal spaces revolve around the so-called "basilica", an open area that connects all functions and faces all offices and rooms. The main auditorium is separated from the main structure and is shaped as a semicircular body connected by covered walkways.[6][4]
