The film was shot clandestinely in Rome in 1944 during what is known in History as the Republic of Salò (when Benito Mussolini was deposed and the country occupied by the Germans). At that time, all cinematic activity was transferred North (Venice) but many actors and technicians refused to go. Some were able to obtain work permits delivered by the Vatican, enabling them to go about and work in the Rome completely freely. Those who were not able to get such documents had no choice but to work clandestinely.