Search ×
Home Rome
Villa Medici
The Académie de France, created by Louis XIV in 1666, was transferred to the Villa Medici in 1804 by Napoleon. The villa was restructured in 1564 for Cardinal Giovanni Ricci di Montepulciano before becoming the property of the Medici family. Today, it is under the authority of the French Ministry of Culture. Artists from all disciplines are still welcomed in residence, and the establishment organizes exhibitions and cultural events. The building is characteristic of 16th-century Roman villas, with a loggia, a façade decorated with antique elements and statues, and an Italian-style garden with paths, fountains, sculptures, and a "studiolo." The villa and garden can be visited in groups with a guide. Villa Medici is located on the Pincian Hill, near the church "Trinità dei Monti" and the Piazza di Spagna, one of the major tourist attractions in Rome, and enjoys an extraordinary view over the city.
Rome, Villa Medici. Taken from the church of Trinità dei Monti. Personal photo (June 2005) by MM in it.wiki.
Medici lions at the Villa Medici in Rome.

Villa Medici

Rome, Italy

Villa Medici stands as an important landmark in Rome, with a history that stretches back to the Renaissance. The villa was built in 1544 at the command of Cardinal Ricci di Montepulciano. Several decades later, in 1576, ownership passed to Cardinal Fernando di Medici, linking the villa with one of Florence’s most famous dynasties.

The French Academy in Rome

In 1803, Villa Medici became home to the French Academy in Rome. This prestigious institution was originally established in 1666 by King Louis XIV of France. The goal was to give promising painters the chance to study classical art and architecture in the heart of Rome. Over the centuries, the academy attracted some of the most celebrated artists in history. Nicolas Poussin was among the first students, while Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres later served as director. Not only painters, but also musicians such as Hector Berlioz and Claude Debussy spent time at the academy, shaping their creative journeys within these historic walls.

Culture and Gardens Today

Today, Villa Medici continues to play a role in the arts. The building hosts occasional concerts and exhibitions in a unique setting. Visitors are also welcome to explore the villa's gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat from the busy city and a chance to experience the legacy of centuries of artistic achievement.

Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Medici
Developed by Reflex.com.ua
Cities
Contacts
  • info@reflex.com.ua
Social media