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Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola
Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola more famously known as Vignola was one of the many great architects of the 16th century Italian Renaissance. Born in Vignola, Italy on October 1, 1507, Vignola began most of his architectural training in Bologna as a painter and perpspectivist. Learning from some of the greats at the time such as Baldassare Peruzzi and Sebastiano Serlio, Vignola perfected his architectural style. Vignola is known for many accomplishments including his work in Rome in the mid-16th century on the Vatican, well known designs for Pope Julius III, King Francis I of France and the Farnese family. |
| Some of these works include the Villa Giullia, with its rectangular front and immense semi-circle shaped garden and the Villa Farnese at Caprarola, and Villa Lante. These summer villas dominantly influenced by Vignola had a lasting impression on garden and architectures designed. In addition, Vignola designed many churches including the Church of the Angels and the oval churches Saint Andrea in Via Flaminia and the Saint Anna dei Palafrenieri inside the Vatican. These churches were among the first oval or dome shaped churches which set the pace and influenced many architects.One of the more significant aspects of Vignola’s designs is demonstrated in the facade of The Gesù. This church which was built for Cardinal Farnese was designed with the pure intent of preaching. The face of the church consists of a two-story composition, ordained with simple columns and pilasters on each story, as well as a triangular pediment over the nave, and volutes which mask the chapel roofs. In addition to these, Vignola also contributed to St. Peter’s. In conjunction with Michelangelo’s design Vignola created the two small domes within the church.Vignola’s architectural styling is typically recognized in facades and main entrances to buildings, which influenced many 17th century architects of the Baroque style. In addition to his designs, he also wrote two books, the first of which is most commonly known as “The Rules of The Five Orders of Architecture”. The second treatise which deals more on perspective, called “Two Rules of Practical Perspective” was unfinished at his death on July 7, 1573. Having worked with other well known artists of the time including Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael, Vignola was buried in the Parthenon and respected as one the great architects of 16th century Mannerism period. His designs beautifully incorporated decorative arts with architectural style that was visible throughout the Italian Renaissance. | |
