The Arrival of Emperor Charles V in Rome
We are in the 16th century, a time when the city’s Walls and towers assumed an especially ambivalent role. Their military, strategic, and defensive function—once again necessary in light of unfolding historical events—became imbued with even deeper symbolic significance, reflecting the delicate balance of power between Empire and Papacy.
Only eight years after the tragic sack of the Eternal City by the imperial Landsknechts, Emperor Charles V entered Rome via the Via Appia on 5 April 1536 to meet Pope Paul III.
Extensive preparations were made for this event, which was intended to mark the redemption of the city and the Papacy in the eyes of the Emperor: buildings were demolished, streets widened, and Porta San Sebastiano was richly adorned with temporary decorations to welcome Charles V and his entourage as they entered Rome.
Numerous sources recount these events. Here, we present a hypothetical dialogue between an architect and a dignitary of Pope Paul III, tasked with organizing the welcoming arrangements.
The costumes and props have been inspired by the iconography known from the period and by numerous available historical sources.