Palazzo Venezia, Rome

Alberti's ideas were appropriated by many. One example is the Palazzo Venezia in Rome, 1455-1491. Classical symmetry is maintained as is centralization. Like the previously visited palaces, there are seemingly three exterior levels seperated by a string course. While there are similarities, let's look at the differences. This structure is more medieval and fortress like with its high tower and crenellated roof. It does not read as the domestic dwelling of Cardinal Pietro Barbo (Pope Paul II). Another difference is the arrangement of windows, the fenestration. Here we have cross-mullioned windows with classical molding. Topping the 2nd and 3rd story windows are lintels, horitontal beams.

The courtyard loggia exemplifies the solution of the joining of corners. The proportions have finally been achieved here by the doubling of piers. There is a satisfying flow, which was missing in the earlier palazzo's. The arches are now supported on piers with attached, superimpositionized pilasters.

Cancelleria Vecchia, Rome

The first thing you might notice about this building is the use of pilasters. Although this was built at the end of the Quatrocento (1485-1511), more than thirty years after Rucellai, you can see that the pilasters Alberti introduced are still being used on the facade. Using the pilasters and the entablatures, this massive structure seems a bit more customized and interesting. Incorporated are lintels and roundels above the arched windows. Here the cornice is less successful, sized only for the top story.