What were covered markets like in 1400? In Dronero you can discover the Foro Frumentario, one of the rare examples of an octagonal grain loggia from the mid-14th century. Its function was, precisely, that of a covered market ‘outside the gate’ since it was built beyond the city walls.

The market is covered by an ogival vault supported by eight pillars with flanking semi-columns. The interior is decorated with stylised red and black floral motifs. The capitals of the columns instead bear the coats of arms of the Saluzzo marquis family and Gothic monograms.

After the plague of 1522, the arches were walled up to turn it into a chapel dedicated to St Sebastian.

Later, the Baroque pronaos and clock aedicule were also added. It was only returned to its original function in 1818.

The frescoes, brought to light in 1937, highlight the Gothic monogram JHS, short for Jehsus. Recent restorations have uncovered interesting fresco details, probably related to the figure of the Saint to whom the chapel was dedicated.

• Via IV Novembre, 39 (Dronero)

• How to visit the site

  Always open