Hidden in Plain Sight: The "Pietre di Paragone" and the Preeminence of Medieval Measurements in Communal Italy
Emanuele Lugli
In the squares of many Italian cities, unnoticed by most passersby, incisions carved in stone reproduce dimensions measurements that were employed locally until 1861, when nation endorsed metric system. By gathering evidence pertaining to these forms display, this essay hopes bring them back into historical consciousness. The story follows is a rich one, for carvings—here called piètre di paragone—performed key functions medieval society. Besides regularizing trade, they at center concordance gazes and bodies, social rituals contributed construction collective identity, political establishment communes. An investigation nexus between politics shows how latter originated crumbling imperial authority end tenth century. addition, significance underscored tremendous attention local authorities have paid their preservation. These maneuvers lend weight cause those scholars who challenge idea Middle Ages as dark, uncivilized era.
Gesta