Beyond the lantern tower lies the second wing, dedicated to Giovanni Maria Lancisi (1654–1720), a physician and scientist of international renown, who served as personal physician (archiatra) to two popes, Innocent XI and Clement XI. Thanks to his studies and insights, he made a fundamental contribution to the treatment of malaria. Lancisi bequeathed his vast collection of books to the Lancisiana Library, which he himself founded for the Ospedale di Santo Spirito.
In this second wing, the frescoes begin to depict the religious and political journey of Sixtus IV, from his entry into the Franciscan Order to his election as pope and his meetings with various contemporary rulers.
Points of interest
The Religious and Spiritual Journey of Francesco della Rovere
The frescoes in the Lancisi Hall continue the narrative of Francesco’s life, depicting him at the age of nine receiving the Franciscan habit from the superior of the Order. The following scenes illustrate his cultural and ecclesiastical journey, culminating in his appointment as General of the Order at the Chapter of Perugia, and later as Cardinal of the title of San Pietro in Vincoli under Pope Paul II.
Sixtus IV Ascends to the Papal Throne
Francesco della Rovere ascends to the papal throne under the name of Sixtus IV and begins taking possession of the Lateran. As part of Rome’s renewal, he inaugurates the new Ponte Sisto in preparation for the upcoming Jubilee and promotes the reconstruction of the Ospedale di Santo Spirito, entrusting the project to Baccio Pontelli. One of the images depicts the hospital’s façade on Borgo Santo Spirito, showing its original mullioned windows and sloping tiled roof.
