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Ercole d'Este (1431-1505) created an entire district of classically inspired buildings along clear, straight avenues emanating directly from the Este palace compound at the centre of Ferrara. The Palazzo dei Diamanti was designed by the court architect Biagio Rossetti, who was responsible for the layout of the neighbourhood as well as for numerous churches and residences within it. The building subtly evokes the fortified character of the Este Castle in its raked plinth and insistent rustication. The corner from which the Este were both to admire their new straight streets and appear splendidly to their subjects, is accented with two lavishly carved, superimposed pilasters and a balcony.
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