Sala Lancisiana of Saint James in Augusta, Renaissance anatomical theatre in Rome, Italy
The Sala Lancisiana is a Renaissance theatre building with wooden benches arranged in concentric rows that rise around a central space. The interior is marked by a pointed vault decorated with detailed frescoes, giving the room a formal and impressive character.
A cardinal commissioned an architect to build this structure in 1593, as shown by a Latin inscription on the symmetrical facade. In the 18th century, it took its name from a physician who later established a medical academy here and advanced medical education in Rome.
The hall served as a gathering place where physicians and students watched surgeons perform and explain their techniques to those seated above. The steep seating allowed everyone to see clearly what happened at the central table during these teaching moments.
The building sits within a hospital complex in Rome and preserves its original Renaissance design throughout. To understand how the space worked, follow the rising rows of benches and notice how every seat faces the central area.
The space takes its name from a physician of the 18th century who not only founded a medical academy but also served as the papal doctor, making him a key figure in Roman medicine of his time. His influence transformed this place into a center for medical learning and advancement.
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