Palazzo Poli Facade

Discover the historic Palazzo Poli Facade, an integral part of Rome's Trevi Fountain, boasting rich history, stunning Baroque architecture, and cultural stories.

Overview

The Palazzo Poli Facade is not merely a backdrop but an indispensable component of Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain. Seamlessly integrated into the Baroque masterpiece, this impressive 18th-century palace facade provides the monumental architectural framework against which the dramatic sculptures and cascading waters of the fountain unfold. Visitors to the Trevi Fountain are, in fact, admiring the rear face of the Palazzo Poli, which was specifically redesigned to embrace and enhance the celebrated aquatic spectacle. Today, beyond its visual grandeur, the palazzo houses the Istituto Centrale per la Grafica (Central Institute for Graphics), a significant cultural institution that preserves a vast collection of copper engraving plates. Exploring the facade offers a deeper appreciation for the intricate artistry and historical narrative embedded within one of Rome’s most beloved landmarks.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Palazzo Poli is as rich and layered as Rome itself, predating its famous association with the Trevi Fountain. Its origins trace back to 1566 when Lelio dell'Anguillara, Duke of Ceri, acquired the existing Palazzo Del Monte and commissioned the construction of Palazzo Ceri. Over the decades, the palace underwent various architectural phases, with early contributions from architects like Martino Longhi the Elder and Ottaviano Nonni. A pivotal moment arrived in 1678 when Lucrezia Colonna, married to Giuseppe Lotario Conti, Duke of Poli, purchased the residence. It was from the Conti family that the palace inherited its enduring name, Palazzo Poli.

The transformation that linked the palace irrevocably to the Trevi Fountain began in the early 18th century. To accommodate the ambitious design of the fountain, the central section of the palace was dramatically demolished before 1730. In 1731, architect Nicola Salvi, the original designer of the Trevi Fountain, commissioned Luigi Vanvitelli to create the new Baroque facade that we see today. Vanvitelli's design was monumental, incorporating giant Corinthian pilasters that span both main storeys of the palace, effectively creating a unified architectural stage for the fountain. This ingenious integration, where the fountain appears to burst forth from the palace itself, was influenced by earlier concepts, notably a project by Pietro da Cortona, but Salvi’s execution gave it its distinctive grandeur. Throughout the 19th century, Palazzo Poli continued to be a hub of cultural life, hosting notable figures such as poets Giuseppe Gioachino Belli and Nikolaj Vasil´evič Gogol', and the influential Princess Zenaide Wolkonsky.

What Makes It Special

What sets the Palazzo Poli Facade apart is its extraordinary role as an active participant in the Trevi Fountain's narrative, rather than a mere backdrop. It is a masterclass in architectural integration, embodying the principles of late Baroque classicism with its balanced proportions and elaborate sculptural decorations. The facade's central section features a grand triumphal arch motif, from which the colossal statue of Oceanus emerges, seemingly steering his shell chariot pulled by sea horses directly from the palace's depths. Flanking this central drama are two significant bas-reliefs. One depicts Agrippa overseeing the construction of the Aqua Virgo aqueduct, a testament to ancient Roman engineering that still supplies the fountain with water. The other illustrates the legendary discovery of the Aqua Virgo spring by a virgin. These historical narratives are further enriched by allegorical statues representing Abundance and Air Salubrity, emphasizing the life-giving essence of water. Furthermore, the palace houses the Central Institute for Graphics, a hidden gem offering a unique glimpse into Italy's artistic heritage through its vast collection of copper engraving plates.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Palazzo Poli Facade holds numerous intriguing tales and details that deepen its allure. Before adopting its current name, the palace transitioned through several identities, reflecting its various noble owners. It was Lucrezia Colonna, wife of the Duke of Poli, who truly championed the palace's expansion and embellishment, making it a prominent residence in Rome. During its illustrious past, the palace served as a salon for intellectual and artistic luminaries. The celebrated Roman dialect poet Giuseppe Gioachino Belli is said to have penned many of his 2,000 Roman sonnets within its walls. Princess Zenaide Wolkonsky, another resident, was famed for her lavish parties and literary gatherings, hosting figures like Russian novelist Nikolaj Vasil´evič Gogol'. One of the palace's most enchanting spaces is the Sala Dante, a grand hall originally designed as a library and ballroom. It gained renown in 1866 when it hosted the inauguration of Franz Liszt's Dante Symphony, becoming a significant venue for musical culture frequented by luminaries such as Gabriele D'Annunzio and Giacomo Puccini. Today, visitors might even have the chance to experience the Sala Dante, which offers an unparalleled and often less-seen perspective of the bustling Trevi Fountain below.

Visitor Perspective

For many visitors to the Trevi Fountain, the Palazzo Poli Facade might initially blend into the overall grandeur, often overshadowed by the fountain's dynamic beauty. However, those who pause to truly observe and understand its significance discover an added layer of appreciation for this Roman landmark. The facade's intricate details, such as the bas-reliefs and allegorical statues, reveal a thoughtful integration of history and mythology that enriches the fountain's iconography. Visiting the Trevi Fountain and the Palazzo Poli Facade early in the morning is often recommended, as it allows for a more tranquil experience, offering better opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation before the daily crowds gather. Furthermore, an often-overlooked opportunity is to visit the Istituto Centrale per la Grafica housed within the palazzo. This allows for a unique, elevated perspective of the Trevi Fountain from within the historic building, particularly from the Sala Dante, providing a different, more intimate connection to this iconic Roman site. The Palazzo Poli Facade stands as a testament to Rome's enduring legacy of blending art, architecture, and history into a living, breathing experience for every curious traveler.