Il palazzo del diavolo, vol. 1/2 : Leggenda mantovana

A sprawling legend set in early‑sixteenth‑century Mantua, this novel opens with a mournful declaration that a young woman will die, hinting at the tragic currents that will run through the tale. The narrator guides listeners through the bustling Corso di Porta Pradella, painting its stately arches, vibrant cafés and the town’s intricate mix of art, politics and daily life. Against this rich backdrop, whispered rumors of a mysterious palace—said to belong to the devil himself—begin to stir curiosity and unease among the locals.

The story’s voice is both intimate and playful, offering witty reflections on history, literature and the ordinary concerns of its characters while never losing the eerie allure of the ancient superstition. As the city’s women navigate love, duty and fear, the looming presence of the devil’s palace promises a conflict that will test courage and belief. The first act establishes a vivid atmosphere where folklore and reality intertwine, inviting listeners to step into a world where every stone seems to hold a secret.