Bernini and the Barberini
An investigation into the extraordinary relationship between Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Maffeo Barberini—his first and most decisive patron—who was elected Pope in 1623 under the name Urban VIII
Discover how the Baroque spirit came to life through the privileged lens of the artistically charged dialogue between Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Pope Urban VIII, two towering figures who played a decisive role in shaping and consolidating the language of the Baroque.
This breathtaking exhibition, hosted at Palazzo Barberini from 12 February to 14 June 2026 and curated by Andrea Bacchi and Maurizia Cicconi, explores the extraordinary relationship between the young sculptor and his first, most powerful and influential patron, Maffeo Barberini. Elected pope in 1623 under the name Urban VIII, Barberini became Bernini’s greatest supporter, commissioning works that would redefine the artistic identity of Rome and project the grandeur of the papacy through an innovative visual language.
Through masterpieces, documents, and contextual works, the exhibition traces how this unique partnership not only launched Bernini’s meteoric career but also gave birth to a new artistic vision, which appears to be dynamic, theatrical, and emotionally engaging, that came to define the Roman Baroque.
The event also coincides with the four-hundredth anniversary of the consecration of the new St. Peter’s Basilica, a historic milestone that marked a turning point in the history of Roman art and further cemented Bernini’s central role in transforming the spiritual and urban image of seventeenth-century Rome.
WHERE
Rome, Palazzo Barberini
WHEN
Until June 14th, 2026.
GETTING THERE
Just a 4-minute walk from Parisii Gesthouse
