On via dei Consoli, in Gubbio’s historic centre, stands a wonderful example of perfectly preserved Gothic medieval architecture: Palazzo del Bargello, named after the town’s magistrate and chief of police, which had its headquarters in this building.
Built at the beginning of the 14th century, today the palazzo is the headquarters of the permanent exhibition of Crossbows (Esposizione Permanente della Balestra). Divided into three rooms, the exhibition displays different types of crossbows, from mounted to manual, together with faithful reproductions of original period costumes. The exhibition is a tribute to the famous Palio della Balestra, a popular festival that is celebrated in the town every year on the last Sunday of May.
Although the building stands out for its distinguished design, it owes its fame to the famous Fontana dei Matti, which was built in the 16th century (and restored in the last two centuries) in the square in front of the building from lends it its name: Largo del bargello.
Tradition has it that anyone who aspires to obtain the coveted title of ‘madman’ bestowed by the city of Gubbio, must undergo a ritual that involves running around the fountain three times and being baptized with its water.