The design for the Piazza del Campidoglio and the surrounding palazzi in Rome was created by Renaissance artist and architect Michelangelo Buonarroti in 1536. At the height of his fame, he was commissioned by the Farnese Pope Paul III, who wanted a symbol of the new Rome. Michelangelo in a symbolic gesture turned it to face away from the Roman Forum and instead in the direction of Papal Rome. It took a long time to build and Michelangelo did not live to see it finished. Engraving of the Campidoglio, by Étienne Dupérac, 1569. #campidoglio #rome #michelangelo #aerialphotography #helicopter