Francesco Borromini’s famous Colonnade, also known as “The Perspective”, is one of the greatest examples of Baroque illusionism, as well as one of the highest achievements of the great architect.
Built in 1653 for Cardinal Bernardino Spada, the Perspective still retains its formidable ability to deceive the viewer, since the short gallery is perceived as a long colonnade through a series of skilful tricks. Originally, it was completed by a painting simulating a forest on the back wall; in the mid 19th century, Prince Clemente Spada, with exquisite theatrical taste, added the statue of a warrior who, although gigantic in the background, actually has a very small size.
The wonderful architectural device is also and above all a moral warning: the greatness of the things of the world is, in reality, only appearance.
