The Residence of the President of the Republic

On Quirinal Hill, the highest of Rome's seven hills, stands one of Italy's most important buildings: the Quirinal Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale), today the official residence of the President of the Republic. With centuries of history, lavish state rooms, gardens, and art collections, the Quirinale is one of the symbols of the Italian state and, on select days, opens its doors to the public. Overlooking Piazza del Quirinale, with the celebrated Dioscuri (Castor and Pollux) and the obelisk, it also offers one of the finest views over Rome.

Three Powers, One Palace

The story of the Quirinale captures three eras of Italy in a single building:

  • Papal residence (from the 16th century), built as a summer home and later a pontifical palace.
  • Royal palace of the House of Savoy, the kings' residence after the unification of Italy.
  • Seat of the Presidency of the Republic, from 1946 to today.

Few places in the world embody a nation's history so completely.

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What to See

  • The Salone dei Corazzieri (Hall of the Cuirassiers) and the Scalone d'onore (grand staircase).
  • The Pauline Chapel (Cappella Paolina), twin to the one in the Vatican Museums.
  • The state rooms and reception apartments, hung with tapestries and works of art.
  • The gardens of the Quirinale and the collection of historic carriages.

We go deeper in the guide what to see at the Quirinal Palace. The square, the Dioscuri, and the changing of the guard are covered in Piazza del Quirinale and the changing of the guard.

Visits and Booking

The palace opens on set days (usually a few days a week), with advance booking and several itineraries (from the state rooms to the gardens to the carriages). For opening hours, tickets, and details, see the guide Quirinal Palace: tickets and visits. To plan your trip there, check how to get to the Quirinal Palace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Quirinal Palace? The official residence of the President of the Italian Republic, on Quirinal Hill in Rome. It served as a papal residence, then a royal palace of the House of Savoy, and is today the seat of the Presidency.

Can you visit it? Yes, on set days and with advance booking, via several itineraries (state rooms, gardens, carriages). Check the details and availability on the official website.

What can you see inside? The Salone dei Corazzieri (Hall of the Cuirassiers), the Pauline Chapel, the reception apartments with tapestries and works of art, the gardens, and the carriage collection.

Where is it? On Quirinal Hill, the highest in Rome, overlooking Piazza del Quirinale with the Dioscuri and the obelisk, near the Trevi Fountain.

Is there a changing of the guard? Yes, on certain occasions the ceremonial changing of the guard takes place with the Corazzieri (Cuirassiers, the honour guard) and the Fanfara (the mounted band). Dates are indicative: check the official website.

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Article #539 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026