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SantIvo

Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza is a Baroque Roman Catholic church in Rome, Italy. Designed by Francesco Borromini, it was built in the mid-17th century as part of the La Sapienza university complex and remains associated with the university. The church is noted for its compact central plan and its integration with the surrounding scholarly environment, reflecting Borromini’s interest in geometry and space.

Architecturally, Sant’Ivo is distinguished by its use of curvilinear forms and a carefully orchestrated spatial sequence.

Externally, the church presents a restrained yet sculptural silhouette. The walls exhibit subtle curvature and a

Sant’Ivo is considered a key example of Borromini’s architectural language and a landmark of Roman Baroque.

The
interior
space
centers
on
a
dome
supported
by
a
system
of
rib
vaults
that
converge
in
a
star-like
pattern,
emphasizing
a
centralized,
gravitational
feel.
A
small
oculus
and
a
slender
lantern
light
the
interior,
contributing
to
the
dramatic
interplay
of
light
and
shadow
characteristic
of
Borromini’s
work.
The
design
displays
a
tension
between
solidity
and
ascent,
with
vertical
elements
drawing
the
eye
upward.
sophisticated
handling
of
light,
with
a
cornice
and
decorative
detailing
that
reinforce
the
sense
of
architectural
theater
without
exuberant
ornament.
It
continues
to
function
as
a
church
within
the
university
complex
and
remains
a
reference
point
for
studies
of
Baroque
design
and
spatial
innovation.