Galleria Sciarra

Before you is the entrance to the beautiful Galleria Sciarra. Step inside and take a moment to admire the magnificent paintings all around. This covered passageway was built at the end of the 19th century as an inner courtyard connecting all the different parts of the estate of Prince Maffeo Sciarra. Its interior, topped by a beautiful glass roof, is a true ode to womanhood, with paintings by artist Giuseppe Cellini depicting women as seen by the bourgeoisie of the time. They portray all kinds of feminine virtues valued back then; you’ll see Modesty, Sobriety, Strength, Humility, Prudence, Patience, Kindness, Wifehood, Fidelity, Friendliness and Mercy. You’ll also see scenes from the everyday life of the Roman aristocracy – gardening, dining, romantic encounters, dressings, weddings and more. Though the building’s interior was restored in the 1970s and rebuilt in reinforced concrete, the paintings and ironwork remain untouched, adding to its timeless charm.