Art movements

ARTE BAROCCA
(baroque art)

The Baroque began at the start of the 17th century in Rome, then spread rapidly to France, northern Italy, Spain and Portugal, then to Austria, southern Germany and Russia.
The first building in Rome to have a Baroque facade was the Chiesa del Gesu' (Church of Gesu') in 1584;

(Church of Gesù - Rome)

Baroque architects took the basic elements of Renaissance and made them higher, grander, more decorated and more dramatic. Complex architectural plan shapes, often based on the oval, with light also used to create dramatic effect and contrast; it streamed down from cupolas and was reflected from an abundance of gilding. Twisted columns were also often used to give an illusion of upwards motion, to drawn the eye upward, giving the illusion that one is looking into heavens.

(Church of Gesù - Rome)

Probably the best known example of such an approach is trapezoidal is The Basilica di san Pietro (Saint Peter’s Square). The square is divided in two parts, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini on an unprecedented colossal scale to suit the space.

(St. Peter's Basilica)

The dome is the tallest one in the world and it's the symbol of Rome, it stands on a circular wall with no entrances or windows except a single door. The whole building is as high as it is wide. 

(St. Peter's Basilica)

The entire interior of St. Peter's is filled with many masterpieces of Renaissance and Baroque art, is lavishly decorated with marble, reliefs, architectural sculpture and gilding. The basilica contains a large number of tombs of popes and other notable people, many of which are considered outstanding artworks. There are also a number of sculptures in niches and chapels, including Michelangelo's Pietà. The central feature is a baldachin, or canopy over the Papal Altar, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The apse culminates in a sculptural ensemble, also by Bernini, and containing the symbolic Chair of Saint Peter.

(Interior St. Peter's Basilica)

I choose this specific art movement because I can still remember my reaction the first time I visit Rome and I saw Palazzo Barberini, St. Peter's Basilica and their stunning interior, the Fountain of Trevi and many more. Rome it's like an open gallery, walking around the city it's just magical. It was influenced by many movements through its long history, but the Baroque is one of my favorite with all is color and magnificent creation.