Walking between the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza Venezia, the Quirinal Palace is often missed completely.

Yet it is one of the most important buildings in all of Italy.

Today, the Palazzo del Quirinale is the official residence of the Italian President. It was formerly the seat of the Popes, later of the Italian kings and finally of the head of the modern Italian state.

If you're expecting another "wow monument" like the Colosseum or the Pantheon, you probably won't be completely impressed by the Quirinale Palace.

But if you enjoy history or the less touristy places in the centre of Rome, it's worth a quick stop.

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What is the Quirinal Palace?

The Palace stands on the Quirinal Hill, one of the famous seven hills of Rome.

It was built in the late 16th century as a papal residence. Popes often fled here, especially during the summer, because the climate was more pleasant than in the Vatican.

After the unification of Italy, the palace became the seat of the Italian royal family.

Today it is the seat of the President.

And by the way.

The Quirinal Palace is one of the largest presidential palaces in the world.

Piazza del Quirinale

Directly in front of the palace lies a large square.

The main landmark:

• Egyptian obelisk
• Monumental fountain
• statues of the Dioscuri - Kastor and Polydeuces with their horses

In addition, when visibility is good, there is a nice view towards part of the centre of Rome.

Is it possible to go inside?

Yes, but only on organised tours of parts of the palace and only by reservation.

The tour lasts approximately 45-60 minutes and takes place in 30-minute intervals.

• The palace is open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
• Price: 2,50 eur
• 9:30-16:00

Reservations are mandatory and can be made on the website palazzo.quirinale.it.

Seating is very limited, so I recommend booking at least 3-6 weeks in advance.

Changing of the guard

There is also a changing of the guard of honour outside the palace.

It's not as well known as in London, for example, but if you're around at the right time, it's worth a short stop.

• Grand Ceremony: Sunday 6pm (summer) / 4pm (winter)
  • lasts about 20-30 minutes
• small ceremony: daily except Sunday 18:00 (summer) / 15:00 (winter)
  • lasts approx. 5-10 minutes

You can watch the changing of the guards for free from the square.

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