Lazzaretto of Ancona

The Lazzaretto after renovation

Lazzaretto of Ancona

The Lazzaretto of Ancona, also known as the Mole Vanvitelliana, is a pentagonal building located on an artificial island in the port of Ancona, Italy. It was designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli in the 18th century as a quarantine station and hospital to protect the city from the threat of contagious diseases brought by ships. Over the years, it has served various purposes and is now a cultural and exhibition center.

History

Construction of the Lazzaretto began in 1732 under the direction of Luigi Vanvitelli, at the behest of Pope Clement XII, to safeguard the maritime city of Ancona from the plague and other infectious diseases. The structure was completed in 1743. Its strategic location and design were intended to isolate and treat infected individuals and goods arriving by sea, thus preventing the spread of diseases to the mainland.

The Lazzaretto of Ancona is an example of 18th-century military and health architecture, reflecting the period's understanding of disease prevention and the need for quarantine. Its pentagonal shape, surrounded by water, made it an ideal quarantine facility, allowing for efficient control and separation from the city.

After its use as a quarantine facility declined, the Lazzaretto found new purposes, including a military barracks, a prison, and a storage facility. In the 20th century, it underwent restoration and was repurposed as a cultural and exhibition space, hosting various events, exhibitions, and conferences.

Architecture

The Lazzaretto's design is notable for its pentagonal shape, encompassing a total area of over 20,000 square meters. The structure is surrounded by a moat and was originally accessible only by a drawbridge, emphasizing its isolation and defensive capabilities. The building itself is constructed from brick and features a central courtyard, which was used for airing out goods and housing patients.

The architectural style of the Lazzaretto reflects the Baroque influence of its designer, Luigi Vanvitelli, who is renowned for his work on the Royal Palace of Caserta. The Lazzaretto's design combines functional aspects necessary for a quarantine facility with the aesthetic considerations of the period.

Cultural Significance

Today, the Lazzaretto of Ancona serves as a testament to the city's history and its efforts to protect public health. It stands as a monument to the architectural ingenuity of Luigi Vanvitelli and the historical practices of disease prevention and quarantine. As a cultural and exhibition center, it continues to play an important role in the community, hosting a variety of cultural events and activities that enrich the city's cultural life.

The transformation of the Lazzaretto from a quarantine station to a cultural hub reflects broader changes in society's approach to public health, architecture, and the utilization of historical buildings. It remains a significant landmark in Ancona, attracting visitors interested in its history, architecture, and the events it hosts.