Palace of the Holy Office

The Palazzo del Sant'Uffizio is a building steeped in history, located just outside the actual borders of Vatican City, yet enjoying extraterritorial status. It is the headquarters of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, one of the oldest and most significant authorities of the Roman Curia, formerly known as the Holy Inquisition. The building was originally constructed in the 16th century (around 1514) for Cardinal Lorenzo Pucci and later purchased by Pope Pius V in 1566 for the purposes of the Inquisition. The architecture is solid and austere, reflecting the serious nature of the functions performed there. Historically, some of the most consequential decisions in Church history were made in this palace, including proceedings against eminent scholars such as Galileo Galilei. Over the centuries, the complex has been expanded and modernized several times to meet the demands of the papal administration. Today, the palace serves as a research center and archive for theological studies and remains a symbol of the preservation of ecclesiastical orthodoxy. Despite its location outside the Vatican walls, it is directly connected to the papal state via a closed passage.

History & landmarks

St. Peter's Square

A monumental square in front of St.

Vatican Fire Station

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

Gendarmerie Barracks

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

Postal Service Square

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

Oven Square

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

Typography Street

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

Saint Anne's Gate

One of the primary entrances to Vatican City, used mainly by employees and residents for daily access to the state.

Bunker Access

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

More places

Palace of St. Pius X

A modern administrative building on Via della Conciliazione.

Domus Sanctae Marthae

A guesthouse for clergy and the current residence of Pope Francis.

Archpriest's Palace

This building serves as the official residence of the Cardinal Archpriest of the Vatican Basilica.

Bronze Door

The primary ceremonial entrance to the Apostolic Palace, constantly guarded by the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

Palace of the Sacristy

This massive building houses the sacristy of St.

St. Peter's Basilica

The world's largest church, built over the burial site of St.

St. Peter's Dome

The most distinctive feature of Rome's skyline, designed by Michelangelo.

Church of Santa Maria della Pietà

The national church for the German-speaking population in the Vatican, located directly adjacent to the Campo Santo Teutonico.