A new exhibition space in Rome: meet Alda Fendi’s Rhinoceros

Visitors to the area of Rome roughly wedged in between the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church (the location for the Bocca della Verità/Mouth of Truth) and the Circus Maximus have now one more place to see when in that part of the city.

The Alda Fendi Foundation, established by one of the celebrated fashion designers, has recently completed the renovation of its new headquarters, standing tall on Via del Velabro, by the magnificent Arch of Janus.

While the building for the foundation itself is called Esperimenti – a reference to the the type of cultural short circuits that are starting to happen in the building, the exhibition space within the palace itself is known as Rhinoceros – and indeed you will be able to notice one such statue standing by the entrance there!

The new establishment is the result of a proper labour of love – the refurbishment and remodeling of the building went on for seven years, with a project by famed French architect Jean Nouvel which respected the different eras visible in the shape of the original palazzo. The result includes a Russian-inspired restaurant called Caviar Kaspia, a number of exclusive rental apartments, a rooftop bar.

You can visit the Rhinoceros space for free – it’s only suggested that you book your visit ahead. Currently being exhibited is The Adolescent, a sculpture by a young Michelangelo, currently on loan from St. Petersburg.

For more information on Rhinoceros, you can visit the space’s website and book your visit at this address.