Gregorian Tower, Astronomical tower in Vatican City
The Gregorian Tower rises above the Gallery of Maps with two main floors, a mezzanine, and a square base structure containing scientific instruments.
Built between 1578 and 1580 by architect Ottaviano Mascherino, the tower supported astronomical studies for the implementation of the Gregorian Calendar Reform.
The Sundial Room contains detailed frescoes by Flemish artists Paul and Matthijs Bril, depicting biblical scenes and landscapes from 1580 to 1582.
The tower maintains its original meridian line and astronomical instruments, allowing visitors to understand Renaissance-era scientific measurement methods.
Cardinal librarians used the mezzanine rooms while scientists conducted astronomical observations from the transformed loggia under Pope Urban VIII.
Inception: 1578
Part of: Liste mittelalterlicher Wohntürme in Rom
GPS coordinates: 41.90512,12.45415
Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:52
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