Casina Pio IV, Renaissance building in Vatican Gardens, Vatican City
Description
The Casina Pio IV is a Renaissance structure in the Vatican Gardens featuring mannerist elements, centered around an elliptical courtyard with a marble fountain. Two cherub sculptures riding dolphins anchor the courtyard, which is framed by arcaded galleries and refined architectural details.
History
Construction began in 1558 under Pope Paul IV as a modest retreat called Casina del Boschetto before Pope Pius IV hired architect Pirro Ligorio to redesign it. Work finished in 1562, and the structure took the name of the pope who oversaw its transformation into a more elaborate villa.
Culture
Religious frescoes depicting scenes from Genesis and the life of Jesus cover the interior walls, painted by Renaissance masters. These biblical narratives shape how visitors experience and understand the rooms as they walk through the space.
Practical
Access is limited since the building now serves as headquarters for scholarly academies and is not open regularly to the public. Visits are possible by requesting ahead or booking special guided tours through the Vatican Gardens.
Did you know?
The Museum loggia features a carefully arranged display of the Muses with Calliope positioned at the center, surrounded by zodiac signs and mythological horses of the Sun god. This decorative scheme unusually blends classical mythology with cosmic symbolism.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Vatican City).
Sistine Chapel
209 m
Sistine Chapel ceiling
207 m
The Last Judgment
207 m
Laocoön and His Sons
323 m
St. Peter's Dome
204 m
Vatican Library
173 m
Vatican Necropolis
218 m
Mater Ecclesiae Monastery
126 m
Restoration of the Sistine Chapel frescoes
203 m
Pontifical Academy of Sciences
8 m
Cortile del Belvedere
184 m
Borgia Apartment
227 m
Gardens of Vatican City
203 m
Gallery of Maps
184 m
Pinacoteca Vaticana
175 m
Niccoline Chapel
195 m
Gregorian Tower
173 m
Governorate's Palace
225 m
Nile
210 m
Belvedere Villa
184 m
Collection of Modern Religious Art, Vatican Museums
227 m
Gregoriano Profano Museum
226 m
Fountain of the Eagle
83 m
Paintings Gallery of the Vatican Museums
175 m
Socha svatého Petra
81 m
Fontana del Sacramento
115 m
Gardener's Lodge
116 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes