Palazzo Fantuzzi (Fantuzzi Palace), Bologna

Built in 1517 on the grounds of former medieval dwellings, this structure – now partly dedicated to exhibitions – once served as the residence of the esteemed Fantuzzi family, prominent members of the Bolognese Senate. Its facade harkens back to the Tosco-Roman architectural tradition of the 16th century, embellished with depictions of elephants, alluding to the Fantuzzis' heraldic emblem.

Construction reached its completion in 1680, coinciding with the election of Carlo Ridolfo Fantuzzi as Gonfalonier. In a gesture of self-celebration, he commissioned the installation of a new staircase within the palace, leading guests to the grand ballroom on the noble floor. The celebrated staircase is adorned with statues depicting Hercules and Atlas.

Visitors to the second floor have the opportunity to explore the magnificent hall, adorned with frescoes crafted by Francesco Galli Bibiena between 1678 and 1684. Departing from conventional frontal perspectives, Bibiena pioneered a new approach to architectural painting, employing corner perspectives.

Stretched across the walls is a simulated, perfectly symmetrical open gallery populated by soaring deities and vivid mythological beings. Bibiena's supreme mastery in figure painting, enhanced by cleverly painted colonnades, structural wings, and forced shadows, creates a flawless optical illusion of expanded physical space, captivating and completely deceiving the viewer's eye.

Opposite the actual windows, a painted verdant garden provides a grand theatrical backdrop, offering deep glimpses into imaginative classical landscapes. Noteworthy Baroque masters such as Angelo Michele Colonna—highly celebrated for his extensive artistic contributions to the Royal Palace of Madrid—also contributed masterwork frescoes decorating the intimate side chambers within the palace layout.