Restoration of Raphael’s Loggia at the Vatican

The Vatican Museums have announced a significant restoration project for the Raphael Loggia. This passageway, adorned with Renaissance art by Raphael, plays a historic role in the Apostolic Palace. Over the next five years, a $5.5 million project will focus on restoring this 65-meter long and 4-meter wide corridor.

The corridor is known for its intricate biblical scenes and botanical motifs. Though not accessible to the public, visitors of the pope and the Secretariat of State have the opportunity to see this artwork on their way to audiences. Pope Leo XIV also uses this passage when attending audiences, after returning to the Apostolic Palace.

Raphael created this decoration between 1517 and 1519 as one of his final works for Pope Leo X. His other masterpieces, like the Raphael Rooms and tapestries, remain highlights in the Vatican Museums. The Loggia’s 13 arched bays are celebrated for their artistic value, inspiring replicas such as the one in the Hermitage Museum in Russia.

“The Raphael Loggia has suffered from environmental damage over the centuries, requiring specialized restoration techniques,” said Paolo Violini, head of painting restoration at the Vatican Museums.

Prior to 1813, the Loggia was exposed to the elements, causing deterioration. Even after the installation of windows, challenges persisted due to trapped heat and humidity. The restoration will involve hand-held laser technology for a “dry” cleaning method, safeguarding the water-soluble paint from traditional cleaning damage.

This project is in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund and is supported by the Stephen A. Schwarzman Foundation. The foundation’s overall contribution exceeds $14 million. Apart from the restoration, the funds will aid in digitizing the Loggia’s images, making a documentary about the project, and supporting a training program for art restorers at a Swiss university.

The Vatican will also replace the existing arched windows with special glass to filter harmful sunlight, enhancing the preservation of the artwork.

Note: The Associated Press religion coverage is supported through a collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. AP retains full responsibility for its content.