Piazza del Quirinale

Overview

Piazza del Quirinale crowns the highest of Rome's Seven Hills, offering a sweeping view westward across the city's rooftops toward the dome of St. Peter's. The square is the ceremonial seat of Italy's President and one of Rome's most elegant open spaces.

Highlights

• The Quirinal Palace: The vast 16th-century palace that began as a papal summer residence, became the royal seat after Italian unification, and has served as the presidential palace since 1946.
• The Dioscuri Monument: A towering ancient Egyptian obelisk flanked by two colossal Roman statues of Castor and Pollux taming their rearing horses — assembled here by Pope Sixtus V in the 1580s.
• The View: The western edge of the square opens onto a panoramic view over Rome's red-tiled rooftops toward St. Peter's dome.

History

The colossal horse-taming statues originally decorated the entrance to the ancient Baths of Constantine on this hill. Pope Sixtus V had them moved here in the 1580s to create a monumental focal point in front of the new papal summer palace. The obelisk and the ancient granite basin (now a fountain) were added later by subsequent popes.

Visitor Tips

• Changing of the Guard: Takes place daily at 3:00 PM in the main courtyard.
• Free exterior: The square and the view are always accessible; interior visits require advance booking.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.