Rome by Caravaggio

Thanks to the strength of his paintings, Caravaggio is one of history’s most appreciated artist. When you stand in front of “Judith Beheading Holofernes” or “The Calling of Saint Matthew,” you can feel the intensity of the chiaroscuro conflict striking straight to your heart. Just like his masterpieces, his life was an ongoing struggle between his brilliant artistic talent and the deep shadows cast by an excess of sex and violence. 

Rome offers the opportunity to fully understand Caravaggio’s art by visiting the places where he created, lived and went through neverending troubles. He only lived 10 years in Rome, between 1595 and 1605, but it was a critical period for his growth as an artist. 

As you walk through the city center, you will discover every building exactly as it was 400 years ago -- even the same atmosphere can be felt. You can pay a visit to Palazzo Madama where Caravaggio lived; although you may have difficulties entering for it now hosts the Italian Senate. While shopping at Via del Corso, take a turn to Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina. There you can see the places of his apprenticeship. Visiting these sights will be a wonderful way of experiencing his art rather than just simply looking at them.

Oh, and when you are enjoying the romantic lights at Piazza Navona while eating gelato by the fountain, keep in mind that Caravaggio was arrested at this square for illegal weapons!

You can see the current Caravaggio exhibit at Mondo Mostre just around the corner of Piazza Navonna.