Comparing two geniuses

A fascinating tour to discover two major architects of 17th century Rome, described by critics as bitter rivals, the two artists probably enjoyed mutual respect.
Both reached great heights in the expression of their genius, elaborating the themes of Baroque in markedly different ways but united by the same desire to topple the Renaissance rules; both had the ability to subvert them, giving life to the most fertile and stimulating period of art in our city.

Along the Via XX Settembre

A walk along Via XX Settembre that brings together the two personalities: Gian Lorenzo Bernini, rich, enterprising and well-established in the Roman art-scene, and Francesco Borromini, of humble origins, shy and little known. Through the analysis of their masterpieces we can better understand the role of pontiffs, patrons and religious orders, who made these men the protagonists of Rome’s art-scene. We will visit three key places to see the expression of their genius: Sant’ Andrea al Quirinale, San Carlino alle Quattro Fontane, and finally the wonderful sculptural group of the Ecstasy of Santa Teresa d’Avila. We will discover the differences in their work but also the points where their visions meet, we will also see how they were capable of unique inventions, destined to leave an indelible mark in Italian, and world, art.