Palazzo del Quirinale

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Map

Palazzo del Quirinale

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The building of the Palazzo del Quirinale was begun during the reign of Pope Gregory XIII (r. 1572-85), who intended to use it as a summer residence. Work began in 1574 under the architects Flaminio Ponzio and Ottaviano Mascherino. However, the palazzo wasn't completed until the reign of Pope Clement XII (r. 1730-40). 

Entrance

The principal entrance, which is surmounted by reclining statues of Peter and Paul, the patron saints of Rome, was created by Carlo Maderno during the reign of Pope Paul V (r. 1605-21). 

Statues of St Peter and St Paul crown the entrance

In 1871, the Palazzo del Quirinale became the official residence of Italy's monarch, when it was known as the Palazzo Reale. Since the foundation of the Italian Republic in 1946, it has been the official residence of the president.

Clock Tower

Three flags fly over the Palazzo del Quirinale. In addition to the tricolour of Italy and the flag of the European Union (twelve gold stars on a blue background), the third flag represents the President of the Republic. The president's flag is only raised when he (there has yet to be a female holder of the office) is in residence. 

The Fountain of the Bathers

The beautiful gardens of the Palazzo del Quirinale extend over 4 hectares (10 acres). 

One of the highlights of the gardens is the Fontana delle Bagnanti (Fountain of the Bathers), the work of the sculptor Giulio Monteverde (1837-1917). 

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