On the south wall, the fresco illustrates the next phase of construction of the new hospital, initiated by Sixtus IV della Rovere as part of the broader redevelopment of Rome and the Vatican area, beginning in the late 15th century. The fresco depicts the pope riding the chinea—a white horse traditionally reserved for monarchs and distinguished figures—accompanied by Cardinal Bessarion and the papal guard. Sixtus IV is shown in conversation with Baccio Pontelli, the renowned architect involved in various Sistine projects, who presents him with the plans for the new hospital wards, still under construction in the background.
