Who Is Associated With the Nolli Map of Rome?
The Nolli Map of Rome is a groundbreaking cartographic masterpiece that provides a detailed and accurate depiction of the city of Rome. Created by Giambattista Nolli in the 18th century, this map has become an invaluable resource for historians, architects, urban planners, and anyone interested in the history and development of the Eternal City.
Giovanni Battista Nolli – The Mastermind Behind the Map
Giovanni Battista Nolli, an Italian architect and surveyor, was born in Bologna in 1701. He moved to Rome at a young age and quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the city’s architectural circles. His expertise in surveying and mapping led to his appointment as papal architect under Pope Benedict XIV.
Nolli’s most significant contribution to cartography was his creation of the “Pianta Grande di Roma”, commonly known as the Nolli Map. This remarkable map was published in 1748 after twelve years of meticulous research and surveying work. The map covers an impressive area of 12 feet by 8.7 feet (approximately 3.6 meters by 2.6 meters) and consists of twelve sheets placed together.
The Collaborators
Nolli’s ambitious project would not have been possible without the collaboration of several skilled individuals who played crucial roles:
- Michelangelo Certosina: A Dominican friar who assisted Nolli with measuring distances accurately across Rome.
- Pietro Cipriani: A talented engraver responsible for transferring Nolli’s survey data onto copper plates, which were then used for printing the map.
- Giovanni Battista Piranesi: A renowned Italian artist and architect who contributed to the map by sketching some of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
- Francesco Bianchini: An astronomer who provided valuable guidance on mapping techniques and calculations.
The Significance of the Nolli Map
The Nolli Map is considered a groundbreaking achievement in cartography due to its highly accurate representation of Rome’s urban fabric. Unlike previous maps that focused solely on the architectural facades, Nolli’s map introduced a revolutionary concept – it depicted both the buildings and their corresponding interior spaces.
This innovative approach provided a comprehensive understanding of the city’s layout, including public spaces, courtyards, gardens, and even churches. The map also highlighted monumental structures such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, and St. Peter’s Basilica, offering an unparalleled level of detail that was unprecedented at that time.
A Legacy That Lives On
Nolli’s masterpiece continues to be a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and urban planners. Its level of detail has allowed scholars to study the evolution of Rome over time and understand how various architectural elements interact with each other.
The Nolli Map has also influenced subsequent generations of cartographers and inspired similar ventures in other cities around the world. In recognition of its historical importance, several copies of the map are preserved in museums and libraries worldwide.
In conclusion, Giambattista Nolli and his team of collaborators have left an indelible mark on history with their creation of the Nolli Map of Rome. This remarkable cartographic achievement continues to be a testament to their skill, dedication, and commitment to documenting Rome’s architectural and urban heritage.