Borromini's Clock Tower

Clock Tower, Oratorio dei Filippini

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The charming clock tower of the Oratorio dei Filippini (Oratory of San Filippo Neri) was designed by Francesco Borromini (1599-1667) and built between 1647 and 1649. 

The hands of the clock incorporate a flaming heart, an eight-pointed star and two lilies, references to the emblem of the Congregation of the Oratory, better known as the Oratorians, which St Philip Neri founded on July 15th 1575. 

San Filippo Neri (1515-95) was canonised by Pope Gregory XV (r. 1621-23) on March 12th, 1622. 

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Clock-face

Clock Tower