View of St. Peter's Basilica and Piazza in the Vatican, from "Vedute di Roma" (Roman Views) 1743 - 1753

Giovanni Battista Piranesi created this etching of St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza in the Vatican as part of his series, "Vedute di Roma." These Roman views became popular souvenirs for wealthy tourists on the Grand Tour during the 18th century. Piranesi's dramatic perspectives and intricate details captured the grandeur of Rome, feeding into the city's mythology as a center of power, religion, and ancient history. The Basilica, a symbol of the Catholic Church, dominates the scene, while the bustling piazza showcases the city's vibrant social life. Piranesi's work reflects the era’s fascination with antiquity and the renewed interest in urban planning and architecture. His etchings not only documented Rome but also contributed to shaping its image and its cultural and institutional importance in the European imagination. By studying sources, such as travel journals, architectural treatises, and social histories, we can understand the complex ways in which art and society shaped each other in 18th-century Rome.