American Academy in Rome 
Rome, Italy

1996
NIAE/Dinkeloo Fellowship

The “Deucalion” or the Day of the Flood

This project was an in-depth exploration of the myths and legacies associated with Rome’s historic floods. In the old city, numerous monuments and churches bear marks indicating the levels to which floodwaters rose during various periods. These flood events have been so significant that they are woven into the city’s lore, with tales such as the one where it is said that the poet John Keats navigated a rowboat through the Pantheon during a particularly severe flood in the 19th century.

This series of studies aims to evoke the atmospheric and poignant ruins of Rome as they were shaped by these catastrophic yet historically frequent occurrences. By examining the physical and cultural impact of the floods, the project delves into how these natural disasters have left an indelible mark on the city’s landscape and memory. The studies capture the intersection of water and architecture, illustrating how floods have both challenged and enriched Rome’s historical and cultural tapestry.