Archive · 18 Nov 2025
Renaissance Bible Exhibited in Rome
A super fancy, old Bible with beautiful pictures is on display in Rome.
It's usually kept safe in a library, but now you can see it in the Italian Senate until mid-January.
It's been around for a long time, changing hands from one important family to another, and now it's owned by the Italian government.
You can look at it through glass and even see it on special screens that show it really close up.
15th-century Bible, 'Mona Lisa of illuminated manuscripts', on display in Rome
Features intricate artistry and miniature paintings in gold and Afghan lapis lazuli
Commissioned by Duke Borso D'Este, created by Pietro Paolo Marone and illustrators Taddeo Crivelli and Franco dei Russi
Has been in Italian state's possession since 1935, donated by Giovanni Treccani
On display at the Italian Senate till January 16, 2026, with digital touch screens for visitors
- Who
- The 15th-century Bible, also known as the 'Mona Lisa of illuminated manuscripts'
- What
- Is on display in Rome
- When
- Until January 16, 2026
- Where
- At the Italian Senate's Library 'Giovanni Spadolini'
- Why
- To showcase its historical significance, artistic quality, and material prestige
- Creator
- Pietro Paolo Marone, Taddeo Crivelli, Franco dei Russi
- Commissioner
- Duke Borso D'Este
- Current Owner
- Italian State
- Previous Owners
- Este family, Habsburg dynasty
- Artistic Style
- Renaissance, influenced by masters like Pisanello, Donatello, Mantegna, Piero della Francesca, and Ferrarese painters
- Materials Used
- Gold, Afghan lapis lazuli
- Display Location
- Italian Senate's Library 'Giovanni Spadolini'
- Display Duration
- Until January 16, 2026