Quirinale Palace

The Quirinale Palace is situated atop a hill in the Piazza del Quirinale in Rome. It is currently the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. It houses buildings and structures like the Temple of God Quirinus, which gave the hill its name, and the grandiose Monte Cavallo Fountain with the Dioscuri—two giants named Castor and Pollux.

Artworks ranging from ancient to contemporary such as paintings, statues, tapestries, frescoes and porcelain, are on display here. The Quirinale is the sixth largest palace in the world, almost 20 times the size of the White House. Pope Gregory XIII started its construction in 1583. Gifted artists like Domenico Fontana, Carlo Maderno and Bernini have contributed to its elegant architecture. It has been the residing place of many Popes. There is a remarkable fresco by Melozzo da Forlì in the Scalone d'Onore, showering visitors with the Pope’s blessings. The palace also has a spectacular 4-hectare garden. It is very well maintained with numerous tree species and a gorgeous fountain. You can witness the changing of the guard ceremony on Sundays.