Casa Allodi, also known as Casa delle Bisse, is a historic building located at number 15 on via San Lazzaro in Trieste, a short distance from the neoclassical church of Sant’Antonio Nuovo. It was built in 1771 based on a design by the architect Giovanni Bubolini, representing an interesting example of neoclassical style with elements of late French rococo.
Construction and Drought Anecdote
Its history is closely intertwined with the historical and social context of Trieste during the Habsburg dominion and the early post-war period. During its construction, the city was hit by a severe drought in 1771. For this reason, as attested by a Latin plaque at the entrance (AEDES ANNO MDCCLXXI OB AQUAE INOPIAM ACETO ABSOLUTA), vinegar was used instead of water to prepare the mortar. This anecdote underscores the determination to complete the construction site on schedule.
Napoleonic Episode of 1813
In 1813, during the Napoleonic wars, the building was the scene of a significant episode:
- A cannonball fired by the French, who were attempting to conquer Trieste, hit the palace, leaving a visible mark still today at the entrance with the Latin inscription "Hoc me ornamento Galli affecerunt MDCCCIX".
- In memory of this event, the reverend don Marco Sadnech, owner of the house since 1793, wanted to place a symbolic sculptural group above the entrance portal.
- This composition depicts a snake, an allegorical symbol of Napoleon I, attacked by three eagles representing the three allied and victorious powers of Austria, Russia, and Prussia.
- The golden sphere hanging from the architrave symbolizes the world that the Napoleonic armies seemed on the verge of conquering before the defeat at Leipzig.
Architectural Evolution
From an architectural point of view, the building underwent some modifications during the nineteenth century:
- The typical cast metal balconies date back to the mid-1800s.
- Later a floor was added as well as the attic, partially altering the original two-story appearance designed by Giovanni Bubolini.
Casa Allodi bears witness not only to the style and construction techniques of the Habsburg period in Trieste, but also to the warlike and social events of a troubled time for the city. It remains an important cultural and historical symbol testifying to the Napoleonic events and the Habsburg dominion.
In the early post-war period, this central area of Trieste maintained its historical and social importance, even though the Casa is not documented as the epicenter of specific events in that era. The building presents itself today as a fascinating example of history integrated into Triestine urban architecture, appreciated by historians, students, and tourists.