The treasures of the presidential residence

A visit to the Quirinal Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale) spans centuries of history and art, from monumental halls and chapels to tapestries and gardens. Here is what not to miss across the different itineraries.

The Salone dei Corazzieri and the grand staircase

The grand entrance unfolds along the Scalone d'onore (grand staircase) and the majestic Salone dei Corazzieri (Hall of the Cuirassiers), one of the palace's most imposing rooms, decorated with friezes and frescoes and used for official ceremonies. This is where the President welcomes heads of state and ambassadors: a space that radiates all the solemnity of the Italian institutions.

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The Pauline Chapel

Among the palace's jewels is the Pauline Chapel (Cappella Paolina), built in the 17th century to the exact dimensions of the famous Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums. Once used for conclaves when the Quirinale was the papal residence, it is a space of great elegance, with gilded stuccowork and extraordinary acoustics.

The state apartments and the artworks

The full route winds through the state halls and apartments, rich in:

  • Precious tapestries and carpets.
  • Paintings and furnishings from different eras (papal, House of Savoy, republican).
  • Clocks, porcelain and objets d'art from the Quirinale collections.
  • Frescoed ceilings and fine flooring.

The gardens and the carriages

Dedicated itineraries also open up:

  • The Quirinale gardens, a green oasis with fountains and centuries-old plants.
  • The collection of state carriages and historic automobiles.

These routes are available on specific dates: it is worth checking when you book.

How to plan your visit

  1. Climb the Scalone d'onore up to the Salone dei Corazzieri
  2. Admire the Pauline Chapel
  3. Walk through the state apartments with their tapestries and artworks
  4. If available, visit the gardens and the carriages
  5. Finish with the view over Piazza del Quirinale and the Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux)

Frequently asked questions

What can you see at the Quirinal Palace? The Salone dei Corazzieri, the Scalone d'onore, the Pauline Chapel, the state apartments with their tapestries and artworks, the gardens and the collection of carriages.

What is the Salone dei Corazzieri? One of the palace's most imposing rooms, used for official ceremonies, where the President welcomes heads of state and ambassadors.

What is the Pauline Chapel? A 17th-century chapel built to the same dimensions as the Sistine Chapel, once used for conclaves when the Quirinale was the papal residence.

Can you see the gardens? Yes, on dedicated itineraries and dates. The same goes for the carriage collection. Check the options when you book.

How long does the visit take? It depends on the itinerary: from about an hour (short route) to over two hours (full route with gardens or carriages).

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Article #542 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026