Baroque is an artistic style prevalent from the late 16th century to the early 18th century.

The popularity and success of the Baroque style was encouraged by the Roman Catholic Church, which had decided at the time of the Council of Trent that the arts should communicate religious themes in direct and emotional involvement.

The aristocracy also saw the dramatic style of Baroque architecture and art as a means of impressing visitors and expressing triumphant power and control.

Baroque palaces are built around an entrance of courts, grand staircases and reception rooms of sequentially increasing opulence.