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Apartment of Pius V

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Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)

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The Apartment of Pope Pius V is a significant wing of the Apostolic Palace, constructed in the second half of the 16th century for the Dominican Pope Pius V Ghislieri. The suite consists of several rooms, including the private Chapel of Saint Pius V, which is celebrated for its exceptional frescoes and stucco work. The decoration was overseen by prominent artists such as Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, who depicted scenes from the life of Saint Dominic and various biblical narratives. A standout feature of the apartment is the collection of 16th-century Flemish tapestries depicting the Passion of Christ, designed by Pieter Coecke van Aelst. Pius V, a leading figure of the Counter-Reformation, insisted on a decorative style that reflected his personal austerity and religious devotion. Today, sections of the apartment are part of the Vatican Museums tour, including the Sobieski Room and the Room of the Immaculate Conception, which were later additions. The apartment provides a profound look into the sacred art and spiritual focus of the Vatican during the late 16th century.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C781014182326262117128
Rain mm7377695657342626708211492

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Apartment of Pius V is part of the Apostolic Palace and is accessible only through a guided tour of the Vatican Museums. The interior is richly decorated, but access may be limited.
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Typical hours
The Vatican Museums typically open at 9:00 am and close around 6:00 pm, and the apartment can only be visited during museum hours. On Sundays the museum is usually closed, except the last Sunday of the month.
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Photography
Photography is generally not allowed, as the delicate frescoes could be damaged by flash. In some rooms, photography without flash may be permitted - ask your guide.
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Time needed
Visiting the apartment takes about 20 to 30 minutes, as it consists of only a few rooms. Allow extra time for the surrounding rooms of the Vatican Museums.
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Combine with
The Borgia Apartments and the Sistine Chapel are also in the Apostolic Palace and can be visited on the same tour. The adjacent galleries of the Vatican Museums also combine well.
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Getting there
Access is via the entrance of the Vatican Museums on Viale Vaticano. After security, follow the signs to the Apartment of Pius V, which is part of the museum route.
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Insider tip
Book a guided tour that specifically covers the papal apartments, as they aren't always included in the standard ticket. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Geography

Coordinates
41.90390, 12.45410

Facts

  • Built between 1566 and 1572 for Pope Pius V Ghislieri.
  • Giorgio Vasari painted the frescoes in the private chapel.
  • Features a set of Flemish tapestries from the 16th century.
  • The ceiling stuccoes were designed by Leonardo Sormani.
  • Contains the Sobieski Room with the massive painting of the Battle of Vienna.
  • Originally designed to house the Pope's personal library and relics.

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Sights in the town Apartment of Pius V (10)

Belvedere Courtyard

Former Vatican courtyard designed by Bramante, linking palaces and museums.

Galleria delle Carte Geografiche🏛 museum

Map museum in the Vatican, walls covered with topographical maps of Italy.

💶

Raphael Rooms🏛 museum

Suite of reception rooms in the Vatican Palace, painted by Raphael and his workshop 1509-1524.

💶

Sistine Chapel

Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, Vatican City, famous for Michelangelo's frescoes.

🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-18:00♿

Vatican Museums🏛 museum

Museums of Vatican City, housing vast collections of art and antiquities.

Pius IV House

Seat of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, a Renaissance building in Vatican City.

Apostolic Palace

Official residence of the Pope in Vatican City, administrative hub.

Tower of the Winds🗼 tower

Tower in Vatican City, built in the 16th century, topped with a weather vane.

Pauline Chapel

Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, Vatican City, site of papal ceremonies.

Dome of Saint Peter

Dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, observation platform with city views.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When was the Apartment of Pius V built?
It was built in the mid-16th century for Pope Pius V.
What is the main attraction in these rooms?
Famous Flemish tapestries from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Is there a chapel there?
Yes, the Chapel of Saint Pius V with frescoes by Giorgio Vasari.
Where is the apartment located in the museum?
It is located near the Gallery of Maps.
Is photography allowed in the rooms?
Yes, but without flash to protect the sensitive textiles.
Apartment of Pius V: where is it located?
Apartment of Pius V is located in Vatican.
Apartment of Pius V: what is there to see?
Highlights include Belvedere Courtyard, Galleria delle Carte Geografiche, Raphael Rooms.
Apartment of Pius V: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Apartment of Pius V: why is it worth visiting?
The Apartment of Pope Pius V is a significant wing of the Apostolic Palace, constructed in the second half of the 16th century for the Dominican Pope Pius V Ghislieri.
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History & landmarks

Bunker Access — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Bunker Access
A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.
Fountain of the Galley — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Fountain of the Galley
A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.
Typography Street — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Typography Street
The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.
Vatican Fire Station — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Vatican Fire Station
The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.
Postal Service Square — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Postal Service Square
A busy square near the Vatican Post Office headquarters, serving as a vital hub for postal and parcel traffic.
Oven Square — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Oven Square
A small square in the heart of the Vatican's service district, named after the historical bakery that served the city.
Saint Anne&#39;s Gate — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Saint Anne's Gate
One of the primary entrances to Vatican City, used mainly by employees and residents for daily access to the state.
Gendarmerie Barracks — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
Gendarmerie Barracks
The living quarters and operational center of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City, responsible for public order.

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Gallery of Maps — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
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St. Peter&#39;s Dome — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
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The most distinctive feature of Rome's skyline, designed by Michelangelo.
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A section of the Vatican Museums specialized in paintings.
Palace of Sixtus V — Apartment of Pius V (Vatican)
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