The palace in its current form is the result of a comprehensive redesign begun in 1659 by the Counts of Canossa of Verona which incorporate a pre-existing building into the new building and expand it.
It was the residence of the Canossa family until the early 19th century, when it became public property and was used for several municipal services, including schools, residences, and offices. Privately owned since the early 2000s, it is now completing a lengthy restoration project, both inside and out.
The facade is entirely decorated with rustic ashlar, in the manner of Julius Romano, and stucco panels depicting small landscapes. The entrance is marked by a monumental marble portal, punctuated by a pair of columns, behind which emerge two dogs carved in white stone (recalling the owners' name and coat of arms – Can/ossa), which guard the building and also recall the family's heraldic symbol.
The presence of dogs is linked to the auspicious motto: “When the dog runs out of bones / the house of Canossa will run out”.