Borgia Apartments

The Borgia Apartments consist of six lavishly decorated rooms in the Apostolic Palace that served as the private residence of Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia). The suite is renowned for its magnificent fresco cycle painted by Bernardino di Betto, better known as Pinturicchio, between 1492 and 1494. The decorations are characterized by their rich use of gold and animated colors, blending Christian themes with complex allegories and references to the Borgia family’s heraldic ox. Notable rooms include the Hall of the Saints, which features depictions of the lives of St. Catherine of Alexandria and St. Sebastian, often including portraits of the Pope’s family members. After Alexander VI’s death in 1503, his successor Julius II refused to occupy the rooms, leading to their closure for nearly four centuries. This isolation inadvertently preserved the original artwork from later redecoration. It was not until 1889 that Pope Leo XIII reopened the apartments to the public. Today, the rooms house a significant portion of the Vatican’s Collection of Modern Religious Art, creating a striking juxtaposition between Renaissance murals and 20th-century masterpieces.

History & landmarks

Bunker Access

A secured access point to underground structures within the Vatican walls.

Typography Street

The central street of the Vatican's publishing district, home to the printing presses and editorial offices of official media.

Vatican Fire Station

The headquarters of the Vatican Fire Brigade, responsible for fire protection and safety services throughout the entire enclave.

Fountain of the Galley

A decorative fountain in the Vatican Gardens evocative of maritime themes.

Postal Service Square

A busy square near the Vatican Post Office headquarters, serving as a vital hub for postal and parcel traffic.

Oven Square

A small square in the heart of the Vatican's service district, named after the historical bakery that served the city.

St. Peter's Square

A monumental square in front of St.

Gendarmerie Barracks

The living quarters and operational center of the Gendarmerie Corps of Vatican City, responsible for public order.

More places

San Damaso Courtyard

The primary courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, where the Holy See's protocol receives visiting heads of state and diplomatic missions.

Storage Annex

A functional building used for the storage of operational materials.

St. Peter's Dome

The most distinctive feature of Rome's skyline, designed by Michelangelo.

Palace of Gregory XIII

This part of the Apostolic Palace surrounds the San Damaso Courtyard.

St. Peter's Basilica

The world's largest church, built over the burial site of St.

Bronze Door

The primary ceremonial entrance to the Apostolic Palace, constantly guarded by the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

Palace of Sixtus V

This wing of the Apostolic Palace traditionally serves as the official residence of the Popes.

Palace of Paul V

This palace wing extends the Apostolic complex to the north.