Sacred Love and Profane Love
The perfection of love between the sacred and the mundane: a timeless masterpiece.
L'Sacred Love e Profane Love, a masterpiece of Titian housed in the Borghese Galleryis a celebration of the complexity of human love. The two female figures, one richly dressed and the other half-naked, embody earthly and spiritual love respectively, in a visual dialogue rich in symbolism. In the background, an idyllic landscape and minute details amplify the work's enigmatic charm. Titian invites the viewer to explore the thin line between the divine and the mundane, offering us a timeless image of the ambivalent nature of desire and the soul.
Useful information
The Borghese Gallery is located in Rome, within the beautiful park of Villa Borghese, and is one of the most important museums in Italy. Entrance is regulated by a compulsory booking system with timed shifts, which guarantees a more intimate and peaceful experience to admire the works. Opening hours are generally from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with last admission at 5 p.m. It is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays. It is advisable to book tickets well in advance, especially during peak season. The visit lasts two hours and allows you to explore masterpieces by Titian, Caravaggio, Raphael and Canova. The gallery offers audio guides and guided tours, and is easily accessible by public transport or on foot from the centre of Rome.
How to get there
La Borghese Gallery is located in the heart of Rome, within the park of Villa Borghese, in Piazzale Scipione Borghese, 5. It is easily accessible by various means of transport:
- In the underground: The nearest stop is Spagna (Line A), about a 15-20 minute walk from the tunnel entrance.
- By bus: Several bus lines stop near Villa Borghese. The most convenient are the 52, 53, 63, 83, 92, 223, 360, 910, which stop near the entrance to the park.
- By tram: Line 19 stops nearby at the Galleria Arte Moderna stop, from where you can access the park.
- On foot: If you are in the historical centre, the gallery is easily reached by a pleasant walk through Villa Borghese, starting from Piazza di Spagna or Via Veneto.
- By car: It is possible to arrive by car, but parking is limited. It is advisable to use public car parks nearby or in outlying areas and continue by public transport.
Once at the park, follow the signs to the Borghese GalleryThe entrance is well signposted and easily identifiable.
History
The history of theSacred Love e Profane Love by Titian is shrouded in mystery, as is its meaning. Created around 1514, the painting was commissioned by Niccolò Aurelio, an important Venetian lawman, on the occasion of his marriage to Laura Bagarotto. The work probably celebrates marital union, exploring the different facets of love: the earthly, sensual and passionate, and the sacred, pure and spiritual. Over the centuries, the painting passed through several hands, eventually entering the collection of the Borghese family in the 17th century, where it has remained as one of its most famous treasures. The enigma of its interpretation has continued to fascinate historians and art lovers alike, making it one of the most studied and admired paintings of the Renaissance.
The history of theSacred Love e Profane Love by Titian is shrouded in mystery, as is its meaning. Created around 1514, the painting was commissioned by Niccolò Aurelio, an important Venetian lawman, on the occasion of his marriage to Laura Bagarotto. The work probably celebrates marital union, exploring the different facets of love: the earthly, sensual and passionate, and the sacred, pure and spiritual. Over the centuries, the painting passed through several hands, eventually entering the collection of the Borghese family in the 17th century, where it has remained as one of its most famous treasures. The enigma of its interpretation has continued to fascinate historians and art lovers alike, making it one of the most studied and admired paintings of the Renaissance.
Reviews
Exciting and evocative
A must for art lovers
Masterpiece that leaves you speechless
Tips
Book tickets in advance
Visiting the Borghese Gallery requires compulsory reservations, and tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Make sure you book several days in advance to guarantee your access. Each tour lasts up to two hours, so arrive on time to make the most of your time.
Plan carefully what to see
The Galleria Borghese is full of masterpieces, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, Canova, Raphael and Titian. As time is limited, find out about the main masterpieces in advance and decide which ones you absolutely want to admire. A guidebook or audio guide can be helpful to better understand the history and details of the works.
Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the park
Villa Borghese, the park surrounding the gallery, is one of the most beautiful places in Rome. After your visit, take the opportunity to stroll through its gardens, visit other points of interest such as the Pincio or the Bioparco, and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Remember to arrive with comfortable shoes, as the route may require some walking.
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