Sala dello Stenditoio - Fabbrica del San Michele

I'm adding this place to Maps because it's one of the gems you can see in the San Michele complex and is linked to a production that few know about: tapestry weaving, which achieved great prestige as the "Arazzeria Albani" (named after the founding Pope, Clement XI Albani), which continued until 1910. The tapestry mill, producing marketable, high-quality products, became a full-fledged business, not only commissioned by the pontiffs (the workers were paid here) to make tapestries to donate to foreign delegations, but also, from the late 1700s, to replace tapestries that deteriorated when displayed for various ceremonies. They were so skilled that during the French occupation, they saw fit to close the mill to eliminate competition from the Parisian factories. Today, one of the best-restored and most scenic spaces in the entire monumental complex is the Hall of the Drying Room, originally used as the Tapestry Factory because it was here that the tapestries made by the state factory were hung to dry their colors. Its large, naturally open windows served as a kind of covered portico, allowing perfect ventilation. The floor plan of the Drying Room mirrors the plan of the large church below, and its spaciousness is mirrored in the majesty of the wooden roof, formed by a unique "umbrella" truss. The room was renovated by architect Franco Minissi and is now the venue for prestigious cultural events and exhibitions (both by the MIC administration and by external entities that rent it). The spaces are beautiful and the acoustics excellent. Some rooms could be divided, just like those in the church, with cherry wood fans, which are no longer present. It is definitely worth visiting, along with the other gems of the complex; from here you can also see the "Cortile delle Zitelle" (Old Maids' Courtyard). Looking for useful info? Then leave a like and check out other reviews about Rome and beyond.