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Apostolic Palace
The Apostolic Palace, also known as the Papal Palace, is the official residence of the Pope in Vatican City. The current complex of buildings was largely constructed starting in the late 16th century under Pope Sixtus V, incorporating older structures. The palace contains more than 1,000 rooms, including the papal apartments, government offices of the Roman Curia, chapels, and parts of the Vatican Museums. Among its most famous components are the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo's frescoes and the Raphael Rooms. The architecture reflects various periods, from medieval fortifications to High Renaissance splendor. While most Popes resided here, Pope Francis chose the Saint Martha House as his permanent residence after his election, though he still uses the palace for official audiences and the weekly Angelus prayer from the study window.
- Location: Vatican City, Vatican
- Top sights: Belvedere Courtyard · Raphael Rooms · Galleria delle Carte Geografiche
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
Geography
Facts
- The palace houses a total of over 1,000 rooms.
- Pope Sixtus V commissioned the current main wing in 1589.
- The Sistine Chapel was constructed between 1473 and 1481.
- The Scala Regia by Bernini connects the palace to St. Peter's Basilica.
- The famous Loggias were decorated by Raphael and his pupils.
- The palace is the location where the conclave for papal elections is held.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Apostolic Palace (10)
Vatican Museums🏛 museum
Museums of Vatican City, displaying ancient and Renaissance art.
Sistine Chapel
Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, famous for Michelangelo's frescoes.
Tower of the Winds🗼 tower
Tower in Vatican City, also called Torre dei Venti.
Pauline Chapel
Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, used for private papal masses.
Saints Martin and Sebastian of the Swiss
Church in Rome, dedicated to Saints Martin and Sebastian.
St. Pellegrino Gate
Gate in Vatican City, part of the Vatican walls.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the Apostolic Palace?
Where does the Pope live in the palace?
What is the Scala Regia?
When does the Pope speak from the palace window?
Are there significant artworks there?
Apostolic Palace: where is it located?
Apostolic Palace: what is there to see?
Apostolic Palace: when is the best time to visit?
Apostolic Palace: why is it worth visiting?
History & landmarks
