SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — With echoes drifting through its mosaic marble and beneath its breathtaking murals, the Rotunda at Marywood University stands as a timeless artistic treasure crafted decades ago.
The Rotunda’s artwork is valued at an estimated $6 million. University President Lisa Lori shared insight into the Rotunda’s impressive 72-foot diameter and the visionary artist behind its murals and paintings.
“It’s an iconic Rotunda. It’s one of two in Pennsylvania. There’s one in Harrisburg, and there’s another Rotunda in Washington, D.C., at the Capitol. This Rotunda is actually eight feet smaller than the one at the Capitol,” said Lori.
“But this Rotunda, the murals that you see, the paintings, and here’s the main murals are up on top. They were done by Gonippo Raggi, an Italian artist who did a lot of murals in churches locally. I think he was from Italy. And then he moved to East Orange, New Jersey, and then he came here. He was commissioned by the Mother Superior at the time, back in the early 1930s, Mother Josepha Hurley,” said Lori.
Before it was completed, the Rotunda at Marywood University functioned as a gym, assembly hall, and exhibition space. Its murals reflect both religious themes and the educational mission of the IHM Congregation, serving as a lasting symbol of faith and resilience during the Great Depression.
“Gonippo Raggi started these murals in 1934. They were completed in 1937. So, the Rotunda, which was built around 1924, actually did not have these murals for several years, until he came in the 1930s and did it,” said Lori.
Surrounded by tilework and sculptures, the Rotunda is more than just an architectural landmark. Lisa Lori said the space now hosts special events, cherished traditions, and even romantic proposals.
“Our Presidential Society Dinner has been held in here traditionally, and it’s some of our largest donors. It’s the society of our largest donors. And we have a black-tie event in here. There’s performances in here, musical performances. And we’re looking to do more of those in the future. A lot of alums come here. I think there’s been some marriage proposals in this Rotunda,” said Lori.
“Our annual Christmas tree lighting. It’s a tradition, a longstanding tradition here at Marywood. Our tree lighting is held right here. We have this huge tree. I forget how many feet it goes all the way up. It’s huge. And it has thousands of lights on it. But every year we do the annual tree lighting. It’s a great event,” said Lori.
The Rotunda at Marywood University is among the many works restored by artist Gonippo Raggi. His artistry can also be seen at St. Peter’s Cathedral, along with more than 100 basilicas, cathedrals, and churches across three continents.