Palazzo di Propaganda Fide

The Palazzo di Propaganda Fide is a building in Rome with two completely different facades: one simple and geometric by Bernini facing Piazza di Spagna, the other by Borromini with curved lines on Via di Propaganda. The two sides show opposite architectural styles of the period side by side.

The building was constructed between 1644 and 1667 and became the headquarters of a papal congregation that had been founded in 1626. From this location, the congregation directed church missionary work across many parts of the world for centuries.

The palazzo served for centuries as the headquarters of a congregation dedicated to spreading the faith around the world. Inside, visitors can see objects and documents collected over four hundred years from missionaries working across different continents.

The palazzo sits on the well-known Piazza di Spagna in the heart of Rome and is easy to reach on foot. The building operates as a Vatican property with offices inside, so visitors can explore the courtyard and museum displays in the designated areas.

Inside is a chapel designed by Borromini that uses curved corners and carefully placed windows to guide natural light through the space in unexpected ways. This interior design creates a completely different impression within the austere exterior architecture.

Location: Municipio I

Architects: Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Francesco Borromini

Part of: Historic Centre of Rome, the Properties of the Holy See in that City Enjoying Extraterritorial Rights and San Paolo Fuori le Mura, Extraterritorial properties of the Holy See

GPS coordinates: 41.90417,12.48331

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:43