Palazzo Chigi stands on Piazza Colonna in central Rome and has been the seat of the Italian government since 1923. Built for the Aldobrandini family from 1562, it later took its name from the Chigi family, who acquired it in 1659. The palace is still a working government building, so public access is limited to guided visits booked in advance. On a tour, look for the monumental staircase, the courtyard fountain, the Hall of Globes and the Council Chamber. Mozart also held a concert here in 1770.
From Aldobrandini residence to government seat
Work on Palazzo Chigi began in 1562 for the Aldobrandini family. The building was completed in 1580, and the Chigi family acquired it in 1659, giving the palace its present name. It served as a private residence before passing into public use.
The Italian state acquired the palace in the early twentieth century. Since 1923, it has served as the seat of government. Today it houses the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and remains a working institutional building.
Rooms and details on a guided visit
Access to the interior is limited and by reservation. Guided visits include rooms used for political work, among them the Council Chamber and Hall of Globes. The courtyard has a fountain, and the route also takes in a monumental staircase.
Other rooms and works noted on visits include a tapestry room, the Hall of Sciences and a painting by Renato Guttuso. The staircase has staggered steps, a detail associated with allowing horses to climb it. Mozart held a concert in the palace in 1770.
Planning your visit
Book ahead, as guided visits have limited availability. Bring the documents required for entry and follow the photography restrictions: taking pictures inside is not allowed. The entrance is wheelchair accessible.
Palazzo Chigi is on Piazza Colonna, near Via del Corso. Even if you do not have a reservation, you can see the palace from the square; the interior is not generally open to the public outside arranged visits.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you visit inside Palazzo Chigi?
Interior visits are limited to guided tours booked in advance. The palace is a working government building.
What can you see on a Palazzo Chigi tour?
The tour can include the courtyard, monumental staircase, Hall of Globes and Council Chamber, along with other rooms and artworks.
Are photographs allowed inside Palazzo Chigi?
No. Photography is not allowed during the visit.
Where is Palazzo Chigi?
It is on Piazza Colonna in central Rome, near Via del Corso.
