Drawing from the decorative tendencies of French Enlightenment architecture, Carlo Barabino reshaped the urban fabric of Genoa during the early nineteenth century. His career transitioned from theoretical competitions to the execution of major civic infrastructure, defining the city’s neoclassical character following the departure of French forces in 1815 and the city's subsequent cession to the House of Savoy.
Formative Training and Influences
Born in Genoa in 1768, Barabino began his studies at the Accademia Ligustica in 1785 before moving to Rome in 1788 to work under Giuseppe Barberi. During this period, he earned distinctions at the Accademia di San Luca and the Accademia Parmense. His early drafting style reflected a synthesis of the architecture of antiquity, the influence of Giovanni Battista Piranesi, and the French architectural parlante movement popularized by Charles de Wailly.
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Returning to Genoa in 1793, Barabino initially focused on competition entries and conceptual designs. Notable early works included a monument proposal for Christopher Columbus, a triumphal arch built for Napoleon in 1805, and a design for La Madeleine in Paris. In 1801, he served as a judge for the Foro Bonaparte project in Milan, where he recommended repurposing the local castle as a military barracks and designed a Corinthian portico for the structure. During these years, he served as an instructor at the Accademia Ligustica and briefly as an architect for the Comune.
Urban Renewal and Civic Architecture
Appointed architect of Genoa in 1818, Barabino oversaw significant urban regularization, particularly centered around the Piazza de Ferrari. He designed the Palazzo dell’Accademia and the Teatro Carlo Felice, a structure notable for a portico that visually terminated the piazza's angle rather than serving as the main entrance. His urban planning included the construction of Via Carlo Felice, the regularization of Via Giulia, and the design of the L’Acquasola gardens. His ecclesiastical output included adding Greek temple fronts to San Siro and the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata del Vastato.
Final Projects and Death
Barabino’s final major contribution was the planning of the Monumental Cemetery of Staglieno, with the project gaining approval in 1835. However, he did not oversee the construction, as he died later that same year during a cholera epidemic. Following his death, the Staglieno project was managed by his assistant and pupil, Giovanni Battista Resasco.
Fast facts
- Born: 1768, Genoa
- Died: 1835, Genoa
- Education: Accademia Ligustica di Belle Arti
- Primary Field: Classical Architecture
- Notable Civic Role: Architect of the city of Genoa
- Burial Site: Staglieno Cemetery Pantheon
Questions readers ask
What caused the delay in completing Barabino's cemetery plans?
Barabino died in 1835 during a cholera epidemic, leading to the transfer of the project to his pupil, Giovanni Battista Resasco.
Which major Genoese landmark did Barabino design?
He is primarily recognized for his work on the Piazza de Ferrari, which included the Teatro Carlo Felice and the Palazzo dell’Accademia.
Achievements
- Trained at Accademia Ligustica di Belle Arti
