 The academy was founded as the “Congregation of Saint Joseph of the Holy Land” in 1542 under the auspices of the Cistercian monk, Desiderio d’Adiutorio and was recognized by Pope Paul III on October 15, 1542.From its inception, the academy has counted among its members many important artists who have left their mark in Rome.Since the 17th century, exhibits have often taken place beneath the portico of the Pantheon, the historical home of the organization.