Thanks to a conservation project, the historic stained-glass windows of the Sala dei Giganti shine once again
06.08.2025
Thanks to a conservation intervention completed at the end of June, the historic stained-glass windows of the Sala dei Giganti in Palazzo Liviano at the University of Padua have been restored to their former glory.
The leaded glass windows feature a decorative motif with octagonal clear glass in the lower sections and inserts of red, yellow, and white glass, crowned by radial clear glass elements in the upper lunettes.
Originally, the hall was one of the ceremonial rooms of the Carrarese Palace in the late Middle Ages and was part of the residence of the lords of Padua until 1405. In the sixteenth century, after falling into disrepair, it was restored under the direction of Girolamo Corner, between 1539 and 1540, with both architectural and decorative interventions. The windows on the east and west sides of the hall were opened during this period by the architect Michele Sanmicheli.
Due to damage caused over the years by atmospheric agents — including a hurricane in 1922 and a hailstorm just a few years ago — the stained-glass windows underwent restoration this year.
The six wooden frames, characterized by leaded glass with geometric and chromatic patterns, showed cracks, disintegration of the lead cames, and deterioration of the wood and metal components.
The intervention, based on a project approved by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, was carried out entirely on-site, thanks to the setup of a temporary workshop. The work included mapping of the glass structure, dismantling of the windows, removal of damaged fragments, surface cleaning, restoration of the lead cames, reintegration of the glass elements, consolidation of reinforcing rods and copper binding wires, as well as complete restoration of the wooden frames.
Old varnishes were removed from the wooden parts, deteriorated sections were repaired, metalwork was adjusted, and protective linseed oil-based products were applied.
UVB-protection films were also installed to reduce harmful solar radiation on the frescoes.
The intervention has restored structural functionality, material integrity, and aesthetic coherence to the stained-glass windows, making a significant contribution to the preservation and enhancement of their historical and artistic value. At the same time, the restoration of the windows has returned to the Sala dei Giganti a key architectural element essential to its spatial perception, enhancing the room’s dramatic impact and contributing to its renewed visual harmony and splendor.
