Travel in time: Mannerism in Mantua

The period that begins in the 1490s, with Leonardo's Fresco Last Supper in Milan, and ends in 1527, with the ‘’sack of Rome’’ by the troops of Emperor Charles V., represents the High Renaissance era or the Mannerism. The main characteristics of the High Renaissance are: renewed emphasis upon the classical tradition and the expansion of networks of support. This support, something like a sponsorship, changed the path of the art and architecture. The wealthy families started giving opportunities and showing their faith to the artists and architects by allowing them to express themselves fully (as long as the wealthy families come off in a good light). In an unbreakable correlation were the supporters (often royalties) and the fruitful period of the Renaissance.

For Mantua, this big friend of the artist was the Gonzaga Dynasty. They ruled Mantua from 1328 to 1707. Their origins are uncertain, and they took their name from the village and castle of Gonzaga, located halfway between Mantua and Reggio.

Just a little bit about the city itself

During the 12th century, Mantua got environed on three sides by artificial lakes, which were considered to be the city's defense system. The lakes have been supplied with water coming from the Minco River. The names of the lakes are Lago (Upper Lake) Superiore (Middle Lake), Lago di Mezzo (Middle Lake), and Lago Inferiore (Lower Lake). The Lake Pajolo, the fourth one, which once was placed like a water ring around the city, unfortunately, dried up at the end of the 18th century.

Palazzo Te

A pupil of Raphael, Giulio Romano worked for Federico II Gonzaga, at Mantua on the Palazzo Te, (1524–1534). Here, he incorporated garden caves and extensive frescoes, combined with illusionistic effects. Judging by the frequent use of features that seem somewhat disproportionate, some would say that his work was spooky and unsettling. Part of the Palazzo today houses the Museo Civico del Palazzo Te and holds a collection of the Mesopotamian art.

Basilica of Sant'Andrea

This is one of the major works of 15th-century Renaissance architecture in Northern Italy. Ordered by Ludovico III Gonzaga, the church was designed by Leon Battista Alberti on a site owned by a Benedictine monastery. Even though the design later got changes and expansions, the church is still considered to be one of Alberti's most complete works.

The Palazzo Ducale di Mantova

This is a group of buildings in Mantua. It is built in a period between the 14th and the 17th century. The buildings consist of 500 rooms which are connected by corridors and galleries, inner courts and wide gardens. In the "Wedding Room," one of the most famous of Mantegna's frescos take place. Keep in mind that the Gonzaga family lived in the palace from 1328 to 1707, fact that gives you a reason to visit the palace!

This is what the famous Italian poet Torquato Tasso said about Mantua, in a case you don’t believe me.