The Palazzo Farnese in Rome, Italy, is one of the most famous examples of Renaissance architecture in the city. The building was originally constructed as a private home and then became property of the Farnese family, who had it renovated with many famous artists including Michelangelo and Sangallo. Though much of the original Palazzo Farnese has been lost to time, its great history has led it to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here’s a brief history of this famous Italian landmark.
Key Dates in Palazzo Farnese’s history:
In 1456, Pope Paul II took up residence in Palazzo della Cancelleria. He commissioned Antonio da Sangallo (later to become known as Francesco) to extend and embellish it with a new staircase, decorated by Giovanni da Udine.
How did palazzo farnese become what it is today?
Palazzo Farnese was originally built for Pope Paul III, an Italian nobleman who also had a reputation as a patron of artists. The building we see today is essentially a conglomeration of buildings that have been added on to throughout history. During its construction, while it was still owned by Popes and royalty, many famous artists such as Caravaggio and Bernini came to live there.
The family that built palazzo farnese
Palazzo Farnese was originally built in 1517 by Antonio da Sangallo, when Italy was under Spanish rule. The construction process lasted five years and cost over 1.5 million ducats (about $13.8 million today). This was a colossal sum at that time. But not everything went smoothly during construction. In fact, both Sangallo and Michelangelo died before seeing it completed.
Palazzo Farnese Timeline
Palazzo Farnese was built in 1511 and is named after former owner, Pope Paul III’s nephew, who took over construction. It was designed by Antonio da Sangallo, and revised by Michelangelo Buonarroti to include 50 bedrooms for guests of relatives. Palazzo Famosi is located in Rome and it took three years to complete.
Must Know Facts About Rome
The Palazzo Farnese was named after its first owner, Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, who purchased it in 1511. Today, it is one of seven palaces owned by Italy’s Ministry of Heritage and Culture. The building overlooks Piazza Farnese. Originally built during Roman times, The Palazzo has a rich history that spans many centuries. Some might argue that it is due to its location that has made it so famous as both a historic landmark and world-class tourist attraction.
Other palazzi in Rome
Palazzi Campidoglio
No artist’s home or studio is complete without some fascinating history and rich decor. And Palazzi Campidoglio has both. The 16th-century structure, originally built for Pope Paul III, was later bequeathed to his nephew and heir Gianfrancesco – who in turn renamed it after himself.
Palazzo di Montecitorio
The palace was built on land that had previously been owned by Antonio Onofri, a prominent member of Rome’s Jewish community. Construction began in 1493 under the direction of French sculptor and architect Pierre d’Agincourt. After his death in 1503, he was succeeded by Baldassare Peruzzi. In 1536, Michelangelo designed a staircase for use in Montecitorio; however, construction was never completed.
Palazzo della Cancellaria
Located in Rome, Palazzo della Cancellaria was built during Italian Renaissance and designed by Donato Bramante. The palace remained unfinished and was abandoned due to lack of funds. What remains of it today is a magnificent museum that tells its history and provides one with an understanding of how Renaissance palaces were constructed.
And when you are in Rome, do not forget the Belvedere del Giancolo. A hill that played a role in almost all of Roman history
