Vatican loggias, Renaissance loggia in Apostolic Palace, Vatican City.
The Vatican loggias are a series of columned halls on the second floor of the Apostolic Palace containing thirteen vaulted bays completely covered in fresco paintings. Each bay features detailed biblical scenes with ornamental details that extend across all the vaults.
Architect Donato Bramante started construction in 1512, while Raphael and his workshop completed the decorative paintings between 1517 and 1519. The frescoes were created during a period of intense artistic activity at the papal court.
The loggias display biblical narratives painted in fresco that reference ancient Roman decorative traditions. Religious imagery and classical ornamental details merge throughout the vaulted chambers, reflecting how Renaissance artists drew inspiration from classical sources.
Access to the loggias is restricted and they are not included in standard visitor routes within the Vatican. These chambers remain part of ceremonial spaces used for official occasions.
An exact replica of these loggias was built between 1787 and 1792 in the Large Hermitage in Saint Petersburg. Architect Giacomo Quarenghi created this copy as a tribute to Renaissance artistry and as a source of inspiration for the Russian imperial court.
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