Palazzina del Segretario della Cifra, Neoclassical building near Quirinal Palace, Rome, Italy
The Palazzina del Segretario della Cifra is a four-story neoclassical building featuring symmetrical facade elements, columns, and monumental staircases on its exterior. The structure connects seamlessly to the main palace through its carefully planned architectural composition.
Construction was completed in 1732 under Ferdinando Fuga's direction during the pontificate of Pope Clement XII Corsini. The building was conceived as part of the Quirinal Palace expansion and served the needs of papal secret communications.
The building served as the workplace of the papal cipher secretary, who encoded and decoded messages between the Pope and his diplomatic representatives. This role reflects how important secrecy and secure communication were in Vatican affairs.
The building sits directly beside the Quirinal Palace and is easily reachable via the paved pathways of the complex. Visitors should keep in mind this is an active workplace, so access and hours may vary depending on official functions.
The building features an original fountain decorated with dolphins, created in 1733 by sculptor Bernardino Ludovisi following Fuga's designs. This fountain shows the artistic care taken even in functional buildings of this era.
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