Via Margutta

Via Margutta is one of the most fascinating and historically rich streets in Rome, located in the heart of the Campo Marzio district, at the foot of the Pincio hill. This street, only 500 meters long, is famous for being the refuge of artists, painters, and sculptors since the 16th century, evolving over time into a symbol of the artistic and cultural life of the eternal city. The origin of the name “Margutta” is uncertain. Some suggest that it derives from “Marisgutta,” meaning “Drop of Sea,” a reference to a stream that descended from the Pincio. Others believe that the name may come from a barber named Giovanni Margutta, who had a shop on this street. Whatever the origin of the name, the history of Via Margutta is rich in anecdotes and curiosities. In medieval times, Via Margutta was a narrow alley behind the buildings of Via del Babuino, used for warehouses and stables. The street was frequented by artisans, masons, marble workers, and coachmen. It was only between the 16th and 17th centuries that the street began to transform into a meeting point for artists and intellectuals, attracted by the tranquility of the place and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. A significant turning point occurred during the pontificate of Pope Paul III, who granted tax exemptions to the owners of houses along the street and to the artists who settled there. This incentive attracted many Flemish and Dutch painters, also drawn by the revolutionary painting of Caravaggio, who was working in Rome during those years. In the 18th century, Monsignor de Mérode, during the pontificate of Pope Pius IX, purchased land on the slopes of the Pincio and transformed the alley into a street in the urban plan, improving the infrastructure and making Via Margutta more accessible and livable. Among the many artists who have lived and worked on Via Margutta, illustrious names stand out such as Pieter Paul Rubens, Nicolas Poussin, Antonio Canova, and Pablo Picasso. The street is also linked to famous figures from 20th-century cinema and culture, such as Federico Fellini and Giulietta Masina, who lived there. In the 1950s, the fame of Via Margutta grew further thanks to the film “Roman Holiday” by William Wyler, which filmed some scenes on this street, helping to make it a sought-after destination for artists and intellectuals. The architecture of Via Margutta is varied and fascinating. The street is characterized by historic buildings, hidden courtyards, and secret gardens. Among the monuments of interest stands out the Fountain of the Arts, created in 1927 by the architect Pietro Lombardi. The fountain, with its triangular base and the two masks representing tragedy and comedy, symbolizes the artistic vocation of the street. Another significant building is the Palazzo Patrizi Naro Montoro, built in the 18th century, which housed many artists over time. Furthermore, along the street is the fig tree of Via Margutta, a symbolic plant that has been the subject of many poems and awards, despite being uprooted and then replanted in 2007 after being damaged. Via Margutta is also known for the art fairs held twice a year, in autumn and spring, thanks to the Association of One Hundred Painters of Via Margutta, founded in 1953. During these fairs, artists exhibit their works along the street, creating a vibrant and creative atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over the world. Today, Via Margutta maintains its charm and bohemian allure. Walking along the street, it is easy to imagine the time when painters and sculptors created their works in their studios, inspired by the beauty and tranquility of the place. The street continues to be a refuge for contemporary artists and a symbol of Rome’s rich artistic tradition.