Apostolic Palace, Museum building near Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto, Italy

The Apostolic Palace stands on Piazza della Madonna in Loreto, forming part of the basilica-sanctuary complex. Bramante designed it in 1507-09 for Pope Julius II as a three-winged structure with two orders of arcades meant to enclose the square. Its upper floors house the Pontifical Museum of the Holy House, whose paintings include eight late works by Lorenzo Lotto.

Pope Julius II sent Donato Bramante to Loreto in 1507-09 to design a three-winged palace with a double order of arches enclosing the square before the Holy House. Construction began on the north wing under Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, continued by Giovanni Boccalini, then stalled for lack of funds. Raniero Nerucci carved the classical portal in 1573, moved into the palace in 1580; Luigi Vanvitelli completed the west side in the 18th century, leaving the south side unfinished.

The palace displays a silver and ebony crucifix crafted by Giambologna, a gift from Joan of Austria to the sanctuary that reflects the importance pilgrims and nobles placed on this site.

Access to the museum is through the main entrance on Piazza della Madonna, with guided tours available throughout the day in multiple languages. Visitors should expect possible waiting times, especially on busy pilgrimage days.

The building preserves a collection of medieval pharmacy vessels that once held herbs and remedies available to pilgrims. These artifacts document the daily reality of those who visited the sanctuary.