06.11.2025 BORROMINI ULTIMO ATTO La casa, il suicidio, l’eredità di Giuseppe Bonaccorso

Introduced by Francesco Cellini Speakers: Daniela Del Pesco Luca Galofaro Sergio Pace Claudio Strinati Author Giuseppe Bonaccorso will be present. The book explores the epilogue of the life of Francesco Borromini (1599-1667), focusing in particular on the last year of his life, which culminated in the summer of 1667 with a suicide attempt. It analyzes the structure of his home-studio, his social relationships, and the events that led to this tragic decision. It focuses on his final construction sites and the reconstruction of an unpublished book, which was intended to collect his best projects, but whose failure to be published contributed to his emotional instability. The study includes an analysis of Borromini's possessions and a reconstruction of the events surrounding his legacy, such as the divestment of his library, drawings, and portraits, only a small portion of which can be analyzed today. His active participation in Rome's cultural life is highlighted, reconstructing the biographies of his friendships and rivalries. This volume offers an original contribution to understanding Borromini's daily interactions, countering a consolidated anecdotal narrative that portrays him as an isolated, ill artist confined to his home. One of the book's focuses is the description of Borromini's last week of life, presenting three possible interpretations of his death: accidental, accidental, or planned. Each hypothesis is supported by evidence, leaving the reader free to decide which outcome is most likely. Giuseppe Bonaccorso is an associate professor of History of Architecture at the University of Camerino's School of Architecture and Design. His studies focus on the Ticino protagonists of Baroque architecture, from Francesco Borromini to Carlo Fontana. These studies are complemented by contributions on the figure of the integral designer, introduced by Gustavo Giovannoni. He also conducts research on the history of artistic dissemination, examining its evolution through photography and art film. G. Bonaccorso, "Borromini's Last Act. The House, the Suicide, the Inheritance," Campisano Editore, Rome 2024 Cover: Nicolas Poussin, The Death of Cato, 1636–38, Windsor Castle, Royal Collection. © Royal Collection Enterprises Limited 2025 | Royal Collection Trust (detail)