Dome

Close side view, from west, depicting stucco frieze; As papal architect Ligorio's main project was to design a new casino in the Vatican gardens as an afternoon retreat for the Pope. Work on the structure, which began in May 1558, stopped but was resumed in May 1560 after the accession of Pius IV, who was determined to complete many of his predecessor's architectural projects. The casino complex is one of the most charming secluded retreats ever built. It faces a separate free-standing loggia across an oval courtyard, with a pair of entrance arches at the two narrow ends. The arrangement appears to be based on reconstructions of naumachias, as depicted on Roman coins. The courtyard is bordered by benches and has a fountain at the centre. Another fountain is placed on the garden side of the loggia. The exterior walls are encrusted with lavish stuccowork, presenting a decorative repertory closely modelled on motifs from ancient tombs. The figural reliefs celebrate Pius IV, after whom the casino came to be named. The interiors are lavishly decorated with paintings and stuccowork by Federico Barocci, Federico Zuccaro and others. Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.groveart.com/ (accessed 1/5/2008)