The Roman church of S. Ivo alla Sapienza - a masterpiece of Baroque architecture designed by Francesco Borromini - has undergone the first phase of a major restoration project after it suffered earthquake damage five years ago. The special superintendence of Rome is overseeing the restoration of the magnificent church complex which was designed by Borromini between 1643 and 1660 for the city's ancient La Sapienza University.

The restored areas, presented to the press on Friday, include Borromini's long-inaccessible corridor linking Palazzo della Sapienza with Piazza S. Eustachio, as well as many rooms including the great hall of the Alessandrina Library.