Cultured Story #12: The Ruspoli Family
This week, we delve into the captivating history of one of Rome's most influential dynasties, a lineage that profoundly shaped the narrative of Italy. Brimming with unforgettable characters, it's a tale you won't want to miss.
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Origins
This noble and illustrious Italian lineage traces its roots back to Campi Bisenzio, near Florence, Italy, where records of its existence date back to the early 13th century, with members holding esteemed positions among Florence's magistrates.
In the late 14th century, the Ruspoli legacy took root in Rome when Lorenzo Ruspoli made the pivotal move to the city. Over the ensuing years, his descendants ascended within Roman society, solidifying their status among the aristocracy. Bartolomeo Ruspoli, a notable figure within the lineage, further elevated the family's standing by acquiring the prestigious marquisate of Cerveteri from the affluent Orsini family in 1647.
Upon Bartolomeo's passing in 1681, his grandson Francesco Maria Marescotti Ruspoli inherited not only the family's wealth and titles but also the responsibility of continuing their legacy. Francesco Maria's illustrious lineage expanded as he secured additional titles, including the count of Vignanello and marquis of Riario, bestowed upon him by his uncle Galeazzo Marescotti. Furthermore, he expanded the family's holdings by acquiring the fief of Cesi from the esteemed Caetani family.
The Ruspoli name and lineage received official recognition and elevation from Pope Clement XI in 1704, solidifying their place in the annals of nobility. Francesco Maria ascended to the esteemed position of prince of Cerveteri in 1709, further affirming the family's eminence, alongside his recognition as a Roman patrician.
Notable Representatives
Among the distinguished descendants of the Ruspoli lineage, several notable figures emerge, each leaving a mark on history.
First and foremost, Bartolomeo Ruspoli, who rose to prominence as a cardinal in 1730, exemplifying the family's enduring influence within the ecclesiastical hierarchy. His nephews, Orazio, who ascended to the title of prince of Parrano in 1733, and Francesco, the third prince of Cerveteri, further enriched the family's legacy. Francesco's acquisition of Palazzo Ruspoli in 1776 underscored the family's penchant for grandeur, while his appointment as Maestro of the Sacred Apostolic Hospice by Pope Pius VI in 1807 cemented their esteemed position within papal circles.
Camillo Ruspoli (1788-1864) elevated the family's stature by marrying Luisa Godoy, daughter of Maria Teresa of Bourbon, and obtaining Spanish noble titles, adding a touch of regal splendor to the Ruspoli lineage.
In later years, the branch of the princes of Poggio Suasa was established by King of Italy in 1895, with the noteworthy inclusion of Emanuele Ruspoli (1837-1899). Emanuele's active involvement in the second war of Italian independence and his pivotal role in the provisional government of the Kingdom of Italy underscored the family's commitment to national service. His tenure as mayor of Rome, coupled with his leadership during a transformative period in Italy's history, further solidified the Ruspoli legacy.
The adventurous spirit of exploration coursed through the veins of Eugenio Ruspoli (1866-1893), whose expeditions in Somalia yielded invaluable geographical and anthropological insights. Tragically, his life was cut short by a fateful encounter with an elephant during a hunting expedition in 1893, a testament to the perils of adventure.
Eugenio's nephew, Marescotti Carlo Ruspoli (1892-1942), continued the family tradition of exploration, embarking on expeditions in Ethiopia. His courageous efforts to retrieve his uncle's remains in Somalia exemplified the Ruspoli family's unwavering devotion to honor and legacy. Tragically, Marescotti met his end fighting against the British Army in Egypt during World War II, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in service of country and kin.
Last representatives
Among the notable figures in the final chapter of the main branch of the Ruspoli family, one cannot overlook the contributions of Don Alessandro (1869-1952), who rose to prominence as the Grand Master of the Sacred Apostolic Hospice. His son, Don Francesco Maria (1899-1989), continued the family's legacy with distinction.
However, it is Don Alessandro's son, also named Alessandro but affectionately known as Dado, who captured the imagination of an era. Renowned as a legendary figure of the Italian "dolce vita," Dado Ruspoli epitomized the essence of charisma and allure. An occasional actor and a strikingly handsome playboy, he gained notoriety for his eccentric strolls along Via Veneto, often accompanied by a parrot perched upon his shoulder. Dado's flamboyant lifestyle became the stuff of legend during the vibrant decades of the 1950s and 60s.
Dado's magnetic presence attracted a constellation of luminaries from the worlds of art, literature, and cinema. His circle of friends included icons such as Brigitte Bardot, Salvador Dalí, Truman Capote, Roger Vadim, Roman Polanski, and Emmanuelle Arsan, among many others. With his passing in Rome on January 11, 2005, Dado Ruspoli left behind a legacy that transcended mere mortal existence, forever enshrined in the annals of Italian cultural history.
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Don Sforza, Prince of Cerveteri, affectionately known as Lillio, distinguished himself as a multifaceted figure, navigating the realms of politics and finance with equal aplomb on both Brazilian and Italian soil. His marriage to Donna Flavia Domitilla Salviati Ruspoli marked a union of two esteemed lineages, further solidifying his place in the annals of nobility.
Lillio's remarkable journey came to a close in Rome on October 25, 2022, at the venerable age of 95. Though his physical presence may have departed, his legacy endures, a testament to a life lived with purpose, passion, and distinction.
Ruspoli Chapel in the Church of Sant'Andrea della Valle
Situated in Rome, nestled within the square that shares its name, the church stands as a testament to both history and artistry. Within its hallowed halls, the Ruspoli Chapel beckons, located as the second on the left upon entering.
Originally conceived as a sanctuary for the Florentine Rucellai family, the chapel emerged from the skilled hands of Architect Matteo Castelli during the early 17th century. Adorned with masterpieces by the renowned Pomarancio, the chapel's crowning glory remains the breathtaking fresco gracing its dome, a testament to timeless artistic mastery.
Of profound significance within these sacred confines lies the final resting place of Monsignor Giovanni della Casa (1503-1556), celebrated as the author of the seminal Italian work "Galateo." His tomb stands as a poignant reminder of literary prowess and cultural legacy, immortalized within the serene embrace of the Ruspoli Chapel.
Palazzo Ruspoli
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