Four centuries of Roman patronage, under one roof.
Origins
The origins of Palazzo Berardi (historically Palazzo Guglielmi) are linked to the ancient Roman Muti family. The earliest phase of the palace is poorly documented; only the chiaroscuro graffiti façade, decorated with Stories of Rome and a triumphal frieze, is known.
1567 · The Della Porta project
After the death of Giacomo Muti in 1567, his son Carlo expanded the palace, acquiring several neighbouring properties. The likely architect was Giacomo Della Porta, whose authorship is supported by Baglione and Martinelli.
1582 · Completion
The new palace was completed in 1582 and appears on Antonio Tempesta's map of Rome of 1593. It had a U-shaped plan and a façade of six axes over four floors, with a notably off-centre door. The architectural language was deliberately restrained — and the absence of shops on the ground floor confirms the building was always intended as a residence, never as a speculation. The inner courtyard featured two superimposed loggias, similar to those of the nearby Palazzo Maffei.
17th century · De Rossi
In the first half of the 17th century, interior renovation works were carried out under the direction of Giovanni Antonio De Rossi. The façade was left untouched.
18th century · Barigioni
Architect Filippo Barigioni led further works in the 18th century that roughly doubled the building's footprint compared to Della Porta's design. A second piano nobile was added above the first.
1864 · The Berardi family
The palace passed to the Cesarini family and, in 1864, was sold to Filippo Berardi. He commissioned a full restoration of the complex by Virginio Vespignani. The houses on Piazza della Pigna were absorbed into the building, the Della Porta façade was permanently modified, and the palace took on its current nine-bay appearance.
1870 · The water clock
In 1870, the water clock was installed in the courtyard — designed by Father Giovanni Battista Embriaco, superior of the nearby Dominican Convent of Santa Maria sopra Minerva. It is one of only two water clocks in Rome.
On screen
Palazzo Berardi has appeared in international film productions including works by Paolo Sorrentino and Steven Spielberg, and has hosted guests of the world of cinema and entertainment.