Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Scipione Borghese (1577-1633) was a powerful cardinal, art collector, and one of the most influential figures in shaping Baroque Rome. As the nephew of Pope Paul V, he gained significant political influence and used his wealth and power to amass one of the greatest art collections of his time.
The Borghese tradition: Art Patron and Collector
Scipione Borghese is best remembered for his art patronage and the construction of Villa Borghese, now home to the famous Galleria Borghese. He was an early supporter of artists like Bernini and Caravaggio. In fact, his collection still houses several important Caravaggio masterpieces, including Boy with a Basket of Fruit and David with the Head of Goliath. His close relationship with Bernini helped the artist flourish, commissioning iconic sculptures like Apollo and Daphne and the Rape of Proserpina, both of which are still on display at Galleria Borghese.
Curiosities About Scipione Borghese
- Architectural Vision: Scipione commissioned Villa Borghese as both a pleasure retreat and a way to display his vast collection of art. The villa’s surrounding gardens became one of the largest public parks in Rome and remain a key destination for both locals and tourists.
- Cunning Collector: Scipione was known for his aggressive methods of collecting art, often using his position in the Church to confiscate works for his collection. One notable example is Raphael’s Deposition, which he acquired by force from the Church of San Francesco in Perugia.
The Political Influence of Scipione Borghese
Beyond his art patronage, Scipione wielded considerable power in the Vatican, influencing politics during his uncle’s papacy. His contributions to Rome extended to the restoration of ancient buildings and the development of new architectural projects, including St. Peter’s Basilica. His political influence and love of luxury earned him a reputation as one of the most formidable figures of his time.
Visiting Villa Borghese Today
Guests staying at QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast can easily visit Villa Borghese and the Galleria Borghese, just a short walk away. A visit to this stunning museum offers a glimpse into Scipione’s legacy, with masterpieces from Bernini, Caravaggio, and Titian, among others.