Discover the Legacy of Maria Barosso with Two Exhibitions Celebrating the Woman Who Designed the Imperial Forums and the Appian Way

Maria Barosso, a pioneering figure in archaeology and the first woman to be appointed as a director of Antiquities and Fine Arts in Rome, significantly impacted the documentation of archaeological discoveries across Italy. From 1905 until after World War II, Barosso dedicated four decades to drawing significant sites, including churches along the ancient Appian Way.

Exhibitions Celebrating Maria Barosso

Two exhibitions are currently paying tribute to her legacy. The first is located in the archaeological park of the Appian Way, showcasing drawings recently discovered from archival collections.

Highlights of Barosso’s Work

• Barosso’s designs offered a meticulous record of excavations, providing insights that photography alone could not capture.
• She documented the restoration of churches built upon Roman remains, such as San Cesareo and Santo Stefano.
• Her artistic skills allowed her to produce watercolors, which she referred to as “impressions from life.”

Matteo Mazzalupi, one of the curators, highlighted Barosso’s contributions, noting her role as a collaborator with eminent archaeologist Giacomo Boni, who led key excavations like those of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Despite her critical role during the Fascist era, Barosso passed away in relative obscurity in 1960.

Current Exhibitions

The Appian Way exhibition will run until April 12, while another display at the Centrale Montemartini features 150 of Barosso’s works, including lithographs, drawings, and watercolors. This second exhibition highlights her extensive documentation of archaeological sites from the Villa of the Mysteries in Pompeii to the urban transformations initiated by Mussolini, which made way for the Via dei Fori Imperiali.

Barosso’s Legacy

Despite her solitary life and fervent admiration for Fascism, Barosso’s dedication to her work occurred during a time when societal expectations often limited women’s roles. Ilaria Sgarbozza, another curator, emphasized her absolute commitment to archaeology at a time when women generally pursued different occupations.

Maria Barosso’s contributions continue to resonate, ensuring her enduring legacy in the field of archaeology.