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Governatorato Palace

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Governatorato Palace (Palazzo del Governatorato) serves as the seat of the executive power of Vatican City and houses the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State. Constructed between 1927 and 1931 according to the designs of architect Giuseppe Momo, the building features an eclectic architectural style. It is strategically located within the Vatican Gardens, directly behind the apse of St. Peter's Basilica, and is characterized by its imposing facade of white travertine and brick. The palace's construction was a direct result of the 1929 Lateran Treaty, which established the sovereignty of Vatican City and necessitated a dedicated administrative center. The interior contains various government offices, the Chapel of Santa Maria Regina della Famiglia, and reception rooms for state visits. The sprawling forecourt in front of the palace is famous for its elaborate flowerbeds, often meticulously arranged to depict the reigning Pope's coat of arms. It stands as a symbol of the Vatican's modern statehood and administrative efficiency.

Location: Vatican
Top sights: St Mary's Church · Saint Stephen of the Ethiopians · Vatican Hill
Population: ~829 (2026)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	8	10	14	18	23	26	26	21	17	12	8
Rain mm	73	77	69	56	57	34	26	26	70	82	114	92

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Governatorato Palace is not open to the public, but it can be seen from outside as part of the Vatican Gardens. Only guided garden tours provide a view.

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Typical hours

Since the building is only visible during garden tours, it follows the Vatican Gardens' opening times. These are typically bookable in the morning and afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is allowed from the gardens as long as you follow tour rules. Do not use flash to avoid disturbing other visitors.

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Time needed

The Vatican Gardens tour lasts about 2 hours, with the Governatorato Palace being one of several stops. So allocate enough time overall.

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Combine with

This tour combines perfectly with St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums. It's best to book a combined ticket for the morning.

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Getting there

The meeting point for garden tours is usually at the entrance of the Vatican Museums. From there, you are taken by bus into the gardens.

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Insider tip

Book the garden tour well in advance online, as spots are limited. Ask for a tour in German or English - audio guides are available.

Geography

Population

829 (2026)

Coordinates

41.90250, 12.45150

Facts

Construction began in 1927, prior to the official Lateran Treaty.
Giuseppe Momo was the principal architect for Pope Pius XI.
The palace chapel was extensively renovated in 2007.
It also houses the headquarters of the Vatican Gendarmerie.
The building consists of three main floors and a basement level.
The facade prominently features the coats of arms of Pope Pius XI.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Magnolia Alley<1 km · NEExplore →

Palazzo Spada2 km · SEExplore →

Medaglie d'Oro2 km · NExplore →

Flaminio3 km · NEExplore →

Gianicolense3 km · SExplore →

Val Cannuta3 km · WExplore →

Porta Pia4 km · EExplore →

Colosseum4 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Governatorato Palace (10)

St Mary's Church

Church building in Vatican City, dedicated to Saint Mary.

Saint Stephen of the Ethiopians⛪ church

Church of the Vatican City, dedicated to Saint Stephen, with Coptic tradition.

Vatican Hill

Hill in Rome that is the location of St. Peter's Basilica, core of Vatican City.

Cupola di San Pietro

Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, offering views over Rome.

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Dome of Saint Peter

Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, offering views over Rome.

Saint Peter's Basilica

Papal basilica in Vatican City, burial site of popes, the largest Christian church.

Pius IV House

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

Sacristy🏛 museum

Sacristy of St. Peter's Basilica, housing liturgical vestments and sacred vessels.

Sistine Chapel

Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, famous for Michelangelo's ceiling and Last Judgment.

Lourdes Grotto

Replica of the Grotto of Lourdes in Vatican City, a place of prayer.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the Governatorato Palace?

No, it is the seat of the administration of the Vatican State and not open to tourists.

Where is the palace located?

It is located in the Vatican Gardens, directly behind the apse of St. Peter's Basilica.

What is the function of this building?

It houses the government offices (Governorate) of the Vatican City State.

When was the palace built?

The building was constructed between 1927 and 1931 in an eclectic style.

Is there a chapel inside?

Yes, the palace houses the Chapel of Santa Maria Regina della Famiglia.

Governatorato Palace: where is it located?

Governatorato Palace is located in Vatican.

Governatorato Palace: what is there to see?

Highlights include St Mary's Church, Saint Stephen of the Ethiopians, Vatican Hill.

Governatorato Palace: when is the best time to visit?

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

Governatorato Palace: why is it worth visiting?

The Governatorato Palace (Palazzo del Governatorato) serves as the seat of the executive power of Vatican City and houses the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State.

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