This historic photo is a snapshot of Piazza Vecchia in the 1950s and 1960s, the period of the economic boom, during which Italians achieved prosperity and began to own cars. The number of cars available grew, and people used them to get around, both for work and for pleasure: a change clearly evident in the photo, where Piazza Vecchia is half monument and half parking lot, at a time when the total number of vehicles—and perhaps a lesser sense of historical sensitivity—made such a use of the historic site feasible.
From an architectural standpoint, however, the square is virtually identical to its current form. The Contarini Fountain and the Lion of Venice (on the Palazzo della Ragione) have been returned to their original locations, and some of the surrounding buildings have already been renovated. The Taverna del Colleoni, on the right, has installed awnings and an outdoor seating area.
Since 1979, Piazza Vecchia has been closed to unauthorized vehicles, allowing visitors to appreciate it in all its beauty, whether in its simple state or adorned with periodic cultural events (such as “Maestri del Paesaggio,” which brings the Green Square to life each year through the design of a specialized architect).
From the 1960s through recent times, various maintenance projects have been carried out, though none have significantly altered the square’s character.
Historical photo:
Unknown photographer, Upper Bergamo – Piazza Vecchia. 1950–1960
StoryLab and Roberto Brugali.
