Casina Pio IV, Renaissance building in Vatican Gardens, Vatican City
The Casina Pio IV is a Renaissance structure in the Vatican Gardens featuring mannerist elements, centered around an elliptical courtyard with a marble fountain. Two cherub sculptures riding dolphins anchor the courtyard, which is framed by arcaded galleries and refined architectural details.
Construction began in 1558 under Pope Paul IV as a modest retreat called Casina del Boschetto before Pope Pius IV hired architect Pirro Ligorio to redesign it. Work finished in 1562, and the structure took the name of the pope who oversaw its transformation into a more elaborate villa.
Religious frescoes depicting scenes from Genesis and the life of Jesus cover the interior walls, painted by Renaissance masters. These biblical narratives shape how visitors experience and understand the rooms as they walk through the space.
Access is limited since the building now serves as headquarters for scholarly academies and is not open regularly to the public. Visits are possible by requesting ahead or booking special guided tours through the Vatican Gardens.
The Museum loggia features a carefully arranged display of the Muses with Calliope positioned at the center, surrounded by zodiac signs and mythological horses of the Sun god. This decorative scheme unusually blends classical mythology with cosmic symbolism.
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