Explore the Fantastical Quartiere Coppede in Rome, Rome, Italy (B)

Rome is full of amazing architecture, but not much of it is modern. So the Quartiere Coppedè comes as a surprise. Not just because it is unapologetically 20th century, but also because it is an astonishing mishmash of different building styles.

Located in the Trieste district of Rome, the Quartiere Coppedè was designed by Gino Coppedè in the 1920s. He was already known for his distinctive architectural style, and he was commissioned to create a new residential area that would pay homage both to the city’s Roman heritage and to contemporary trends.

Based around a central square with a fountain, the Coppedè district includes 18 palaces and 27 villas and other buildings. Coppedè seems to have been given free rein to indulge his creativity to the full: the result is an eclectic mixture of styles, symbolism and whimsical features.

If you stand in the central Piazza Mincio, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles. There are turrets, frescoes and sculptures, wrought iron balconies and mythological references. And, as if to emphasise the point that all of the early 20th century is here, walk a little way from the piazza and you’ll encounter some classic functionalist architecture. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).