The Vestal Virgin Tuccia – between virtue and downfall, meaning the story of an unwanted work

In February 1743 the famous and valued at European courts Venetian sculptor Antonio Corradini came to the Eternal City and opened up a workshop near the Palazzo Barberini, the center of artistic life of the then Rome (Vicolo della Catena). In his atelier, he not only worked on a new work but also hosted important guests, who came there only to see the virtuosity and bravado of his new artistic creation. And this time it was the figure of a veiled woman.

Church of Sant’ Apollinare – a church „with a past”

This little-known and not particularly distinguishable church had only become famous fairly recently. The crowds shouting and protesting in front of its façade had attracted attention to it, due to an issue that was rather shameful for the church, we may even say disgraceful. There was renewed discussion about the ever-present friendship between the Tiara and the criminal world, as well as the shady businesses and shady dealings of the people of the Church. Presently the church is a basilica minor a title which it acquired in 1984 thanks to Pope John Paul II. It was also during his pont...

Fontane on Piazza Farnese – ancient baths in the service of the Farnese family

In front of the monumental palace of the Farnese family, there is a square (Piazza Farnese) with two identical fountains on the sides. From each, the water flows in a gentle manner. Yet in the past, which is testified to by old drawings, these were veritable cascades – the steams from the fountains soared upwards and with great impact fell into the upper basins, while the incoming excess water, as a thick curtain descended into the basins below.