Palazzo Venezia

Palazzo Venezia sits in the Pigna district, between the square that carries the same name and Via del Plebiscito, showing itself as a large structure with a square corner tower. Its walls are made of stones taken from Roman ruins, giving the building a squat and heavy appearance.

Venetian Cardinal Pietro Barbo commissioned the construction of this palace in 1455, and it later served as the residence for Pope Paul II. In the 16th century the building then became the seat of the Venetian embassy to the Holy See.

The National Museum of Palazzo Venezia contains medieval and Renaissance art collections, including works by Pisanello, Giorgione, and Carlo Maratta.

The museum inside opens daily and offers reduced rates for young Europeans under 25 years old. On the first Sunday of each month admission is free.

During the fascist era Mussolini used a hall on the first floor as his office and kept the windows lit at night to give the impression of constant work. From his balcony here he delivered several speeches to large crowds in Piazza Venezia.

Location: Pigna

Creator: Mino da Fiesole

Architectural style: Renaissance architecture

Part of: Vittoriano e Palazzo Venezia

Address: Piazza San Marco, 49 - Roma

Website: https://vive.cultura.gov.it/en/palazzo-venezia

GPS coordinates: 41.89620,12.48150

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:23