The first great opportunity
S. Carlo alle Quattro Fontane–exterior
In 1634 Borromini received his first commission as an independent architect. His client was the Spanish Order of the Most Holy Trinity and of the Captives. From the beginning he had to face numerous challenges. The plot was small and its shape was irregular, while the Order lacked the necessary funds. Borromini was, in fact, selected because he agreed to work for free. His one condition was that he would be given free reign to design whatever he pleased. Borromini is well aware that this is his first real chance to prove his talent in Rome.
As seen on
Borromini: The insufferable genius
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