The Greeks, in particular, made a remarkable discovery regarding the production of a special adhesive by subjecting limestone rocks to intense heat within expansive ovens.
[6] Nevertheless, this transformative process, which involved converting limestone into calcium oxide, carbon dioxide, and steam, posed significant challenges due to the requirement of extremely high temperatures, reaching approximately 2200 °F.
[7] Venetian plaster, a distinctive type of wall covering, boasts a rich historical legacy that traces back to ancient times, with its origins linked to Pompeii and the subsequent Roman Empire.
Palladio, a renowned Renaissance architect, referred to the process as "Pietra d'Istria" since the plaster bore a striking resemblance to natural rocks such as marble, granite, and travertine commonly found near Venice.
During the Baroque period, Venetian plaster experienced a decline in popularity, echoing the diminished prominence witnessed after the fall of the Roman Empire.
[10] However, in the 1950s, a notable Venetian builder named Carlo Scarpa played a pivotal role in revitalizing the use of Marmorino in contemporary construction.
[9] Scarpa not only adhered to the methods outlined by Vitruvius and Palladio but also introduced innovative techniques involving the utilization of animal hides and acrylic resins.