This article introduces some data regarding the teaching of mathematics in "La Sapienza" in the 17th century, with particular reference to the discipline's role in the statutes, the lecturers, the courses' programmes, the interest that Popes took in it. Specifically, it will focus on the changes that occured at the end of the 17th century, with regards to the development of the discipline and the improvement of a "scientific culture" in the city of the Pope.