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Palace of Paul V

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Palazzo di Paolo V represents a significant expansion phase of the Apostolic Palace and encloses the northern side of the Cortile di San Damaso. Built in the early 17th century under Pope Paul V Borghese (1605-1621), this building completed the monumental square ensemble started under his predecessors. The architecture of the wing is characterized by its magnificent facades and the continuation of the three-story loggias that define the visual appearance of the papal court. Inside, the palace houses splendid halls decorated with frescoes from the Borghese era, often used for diplomatic receptions and official meetings of the Curia. Paul V placed great emphasis on combining representative splendor with functional efficiency, which is reflected in the clear spatial layout. Historically, this palace was a site of intense church-political decisions during the Counter-Reformation. Today, the building continues to serve as the seat of important Vatican authorities and is a central access point for state guests to the papal apartments. The architectural unity of the San Damaso courtyard was only perfected by this construction.

Location: Vatican
Top sights: Belvedere Courtyard · Window of the Pope's study · Apostolic Palace
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

This palace wing is part of the vast Apostolic Palace complex and is not generally open to the public. You can admire its Renaissance facade from the outside during a stroll through Vatican City.

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Typical hours

As a restricted administrative wing, there are no regular visiting hours for the public. Typical access to the Apostolic Palace interior is only via guided Vatican tours, which rarely include this wing.

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Photography

Photography of the exterior is allowed from surrounding courtyards and streets. Interior photography is not permitted due to its restricted status.

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Time needed

A brief stop to view the exterior takes about 10-15 minutes. If you are on a comprehensive Vatican tour, allocate extra time for the outer courtyards.

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Combine with

Combine with a visit to the nearby Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica. The Cortile della Pigna and the Belvedere Courtyard are within walking distance.

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Getting there

Located within Vatican City, accessible via the Vatican Museums entrance or from St. Peter's Square. The nearest public transport is Roma San Pietro train station or Ottaviano metro.

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Insider tip

Look for the Borghese heraldic symbols on the facade to spot the palace wing. Early morning light has the best photo opportunities for the exterior stonework.