Pirro Ligorio (c. 1512–1583) was a multifaceted Italian Renaissance architect, painter, antiquarian, and garden designer, known for his deep passion for classical Roman antiquity. Ligorio worked as the Vatican’s Papal Architect under Popes Paul IV and Pius IV, notably designing the elaborate fountains at the Villa d’Este in Tivoli. He created detailed frescoes and was a key figure in Renaissance art and architecture in Rome. Ligorio was a skilled cartographer and published a renowned topographical map of ancient Rome, Antiquae urbis imago, in 1561, which was innovative in depicting both famous monuments and vernacular architecture. He also contributed significantly to the preservation and study of Roman antiquities, producing extensive drawings and writings.
Ligorio’s architectural achievements include designing the Papal chapel, the Casino of Pius IV, and fortifications, alongside engineering works like the restoration of the Acqua Vergine aqueduct in Rome. Later, he served as Ducal Antiquary in Ferrara, organizing the ducal library and creating designs for the court. He was recognized for his intellectual contributions and awarded honorary Roman citizenship, a rare honor shared with few Renaissance figures.
