Way of Conciliation

Via della Conciliazione, one of the most iconic avenues in Rome, connects the heart of Christianity, St. Peter’s Square, with Castel Sant’Angelo. This street, about 500 meters long, is the result of an urban transformation initiated during the fascist regime, with the aim of celebrating the reconciliation between the Italian State and the Catholic Church sanctioned by the Lateran Pacts of 1929. The idea of creating a monumental street that connected the Vatican with the rest of the city had already been proposed by several architects over the centuries, but it was only with Benito Mussolini that the project took concrete form. The fascist dictator, eager to impress both Romans and foreign visitors with his public works, saw in this project an opportunity to showcase the power and modernity of his regime. The construction of Via della Conciliazione began in 1936, under the direction of architects Marcello Piacentini and Attilio Spaccarelli. The realization of the avenue involved the demolition of the Spina di Borgo, an intricate maze of narrow medieval alleys that characterized the Borgo district. This intervention sparked controversy, as it led to the destruction of historical buildings of great architectural value, including the Palazzo dei Convertendi, the Palazzo del Governatore, and the Church of San Giacomo Scossacavalli. Despite the controversy, the project continued and the street was finally completed on the occasion of the Holy Year of 1950, five years after the fall of the fascist regime. The street is characterized by wide sidewalks and rows of obelisks that serve as lampposts, creating a scenographic effect that guides the visitor’s gaze directly towards the majestic facade of St. Peter’s Basilica. Via della Conciliazione is not only a connecting route, but also a symbol of unity and reconciliation. Its construction marked the end of hostilities between the Kingdom of Italy and the Vatican, establishing a new era of cooperation and mutual respect. This spirit of reconciliation is also reflected in the name of the street. The architecture of Via della Conciliazione is a mix of neoclassical and baroque styles, recalling the prevailing architectural trends in Rome during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Among the prominent buildings overlooking the street are the Palazzo dei Penitenzieri, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture, and the Palazzo Torlonia, representing the prestige and history of Roman noble families. The construction of Via della Conciliazione has also had a significant impact on the urban and economic fabric of the area. The area has seen an increase in tourism and the opening of numerous shops, restaurants, and hotels serving visitors from around the world. This transformation has helped revitalize the neighborhood, making it one of the most visited and vibrant in the city. In recent years, Via della Conciliazione has undergone several restoration interventions to preserve its beauty and architectural integrity. These works have included cleaning the facades of buildings, repairing damaged stones, and updating the lighting system to highlight the architectural features of the street. These efforts ensure that Via della Conciliazione continues to be an attractive destination for tourists and a source of pride for Romans.