Rome: Historic ‘Botticelle’ Stables Relocated, Fine Arts Academy to Expand in Testaccio
After decades of being at a standstill, the situation surrounding Rome’s historic ‘botticelle’ horse carriage stables has finally been resolved. The coachmen, initially reluctant to move, have now agreed to relocate their operations to an area near the former Galoppatoio in Villa Borghese. This significant move liberates the former stables in Testaccio, paving the way for the long-awaited expansion of the Fine Arts Academy.
What’s Changing and Where?
- Former Stables Location: Testaccio (now available for the Fine Arts Academy)
- New Stables Location: Near the former Galoppatoio in Villa Borghese
- Beneficiary: Fine Arts Academy in via di Ripetta
The premises in Testaccio had been assigned to the Fine Arts Academy 22 years ago, but remained inaccessible due to the presence of the horse-drawn carriages. Now, with the official handover, the Academy can proceed with its expansion plans.
Fine Arts Academy’s Expansion Plans
Umberto Croppi, President of the Fine Arts Academy, stated that the semi-executive project is ready for an update, and tenders can now be launched. “If we are efficient, construction could begin in a year,” Croppi highlighted. The expansion will be carried out in blocks, making new environments progressively accessible. The recovered space will allow for the creation of:
- New classrooms
- Exhibition galleries
- Ateliers for workshops
- An experimental garden with pollution-absorbing plant species
The estimated investment for this project is 19 million euros. “Some funds can be invested immediately for preliminary aspects,” Croppi noted, adding that the Academy is counting on grants from the Ministry of Culture for construction or other funding lines to cover the full costs.
Additional Space for the Academy
In addition to the former stables, the Municipality has also allocated another 1,000 square meters of space to the Academy in Via Portuense, which will be available by the end of this year. The requalification of the former stables within the context of the Mattatoio (slaughterhouse) complex represents a further step towards creating an international hub for arts and culture in Rome.
Official Statements and Perspectives
Tobia Zevi, Councillor for Heritage, commented, “The Academy finally enters the premises it was entitled to and can launch a strategic investment for culture and education in Rome. At the same time, we have ensured more adequate conditions for the animals through a significant investment for the arrangement of the Galoppatoio.”
Yuri Trombetti, President of the Heritage Commission, shared his satisfaction but also expressed a touch of nostalgia: “As a Testaccino, I will miss seeing the ‘botticelle’ return in the evening at sunset.”
Challenges Ahead: The Mattatoio Foundation
A point of contention remains regarding the Mattatoio Foundation of Arts, established in November between the Municipality and Roma Tre University, but without the Academy’s inclusion. “They had assured us that we would have the role of founding member, but suddenly it was not so,” revealed Croppi. “We hope that the Campidoglio will reconsider its steps and review the governance model.”
Key Information at a Glance
Timeline:
- 22 years ago: Stables assigned to the Academy but not accessible.
- Now: Official handover and relocation.
- Next 1 year: Potential start of construction for the Academy’s expansion.
- End of this year: 1,000 sqm space in Via Portuense available to the Academy.
Investment:
- Estimated total: 19 million euros
- Funding sources: Initial direct investment, Ministry of Culture grants, other financing lines.
Contact for further information:
- Fine Arts Academy: [Contact details would be inserted here if available in raw data]
- Rome Municipality: [Contact details would be inserted here if available in raw data]
Related News:
- Rome, the Botticelle awaiting the stables of Villa Borghese: “Horses in the Center from Muro Torto”
- Rome, botticelle and horses to be saved: from the slaughterhouse and from the fiery streets
- Botticelle, the League rejects Michela Brambilla’s amendment in the Chamber to ban them throughout Italy: “Shame”
Source: https://roma.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_febbraio_21/roma-le-ex-stalle-delle-botticelle-trasferite-a-villa-borghese-a-testaccio-l-accademia-di-belle-arti-c85b6b3c-1a83-4780-86e1-cbcdd527cxlk.shtml
