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Raphael's architectural project for the luxurious residence later known as the Villa Madama was passed to Giulio for completion with Raphael's death. Giulio's training in architecture consisted of assisting Raphael at levels of increasing responsibility, gaining mastery while performing the tasks allotted to him. His first steps as an architect are indistinguishable in the works of his master. Although only a portion of the vast complex was completed under Giulio's efforts, the results were stunning, both for their invention and richness of effect.
In addition to the completion of Raphael's unfulfilled commissions, Giulio immediately received independent architectural assignments. In 1520-21 he had the opportunity to capitalize on the fashion for classical suburban villas, which the Villa Madama had helped to create, when Baldassare Turini commissioned a residence (now known as the Villa Lante) on the Janiculum Hill.
Following the Villa Lante, c. 1522-23 Giulio took up the commission to construct an urban palazzo facing the Piazza Sant'Eustachio. The resulting Palazzo Stati Maccarani is a massive three-storey building surrounding an interior courtyard, with five bays composing its principal façade.
In 1524, he settled in Mantua and worked with Federico II Gonzaga who appointed him Superior General of the Gonzaga buildings for the entire Mantuan state. Giulio's work for Federico included everything from designs for silverware to directing the renovation and construction of buildings. He oversaw projects for urban renewal and advised on engineering problems. The most important project was the construction and decoration of the Palazzo del Tè. It took place over about a decade, from the mid-1520s with several interruptions.
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| Summary of works by GIULIO ROMANO |
| Paintings |
| Decoration in the Palazzo Ducale | Various paintings |
| Decoration in the Palazzo del Tè |
| Sala dei Giganti | Sala di Psiche | other rooms |
| Architecture |
| Palazzo del Tè | Various architecture |
