Bramante Staircase (Original)

The original Bramante Staircase, built around 1505, is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering located within the Belvedere complex of the Vatican. Designed by Donato Bramante, it is actually a step-less spiral ramp rather than a traditional staircase, intended to allow both people and pack animals to reach the Villa Belvedere with ease. The structure utilizes a double-helix design, ensuring that ascending and descending traffic would never meet, a revolutionary concept at the time. The ramp is supported by a series of columns that transition in style from Doric at the base to Ionic and finally Corinthian at the top. This staircase served as a private entrance for the Pope and distinguished guests, offering a seamless transition between levels while maintaining structural integrity. It is distinct from the famous modern spiral staircase designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932 located at the museum exit. Bramante's original ramp remains a testament to the innovative spirit of the 16th century, blending functional necessity with classical beauty.

History & landmarks

Fountain of the Galley

A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.

Bunker Access

A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

Typography Street

The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.

Oven Square

A small square in the heart of the Vatican's service district, named after the historical bakery that served the city.

Postal Service Square

A busy square near the Vatican Post Office headquarters, serving as a vital hub for postal and parcel traffic.

Vatican Fire Station

The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.

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

The living quarters and operational center of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City, responsible for public order.

More places

Missionary-Ethnological Museum

Known today as Anima Mundi, this museum displays religious artworks from around the world, often collected by missionaries.

Pio-Clementine Museum

The largest of the Vatican Museums, housing significant Greek and Roman sculptures, including the famous Laocoön group.

Palace of Innocent VIII

This palace forms the core of the Belvedere complex in the Vatican.

Chiaramonti Museum

Founded by Pope Pius VII, this museum displays hundreds of Roman busts and statues in an impressive gallery designed by Canova.

Gregorian Etruscan Museum

The museum is dedicated to Etruscan art and culture.

Vatican Pinacoteca

A section of the Vatican Museums specialized in paintings.

Gallery of Maps

A 120-meter long corridor painted with 16th-century topographical maps of Italy.

Palace of Paul V

This palace wing extends the Apostolic complex to the north.