IT
Reflections on the Letter to Pope Leo X in the Historical Archive of Fondazione Roma.
On 26 February 2026 at 6:00 PM, the Sala Rebecchini at Palazzo Sciarra Colonna will host a meeting dedicated to Raphael and Baldassarre Castiglione’s Letter to Pope Leo X, considered one of the earliest and most authoritative statements in defence of Rome’s ancient monuments.
Written at a time when the city’s archaeological heritage was often subject to dispersion and reuse, the letter represents a fundamental document in the history of cultural heritage protection. Through Raphael’s words emerges a clear awareness of the historical and identity value of ancient ruins, and the need to preserve and study them.
The lecture will offer a reflection on the historical and cultural context in which the document was produced, as well as its significance within the long history of heritage conservation.
Speakers include Professor Tommaso Casini and Professor Claudio Strinati. The session will be moderated by curator Francesca Garello.
