Palace of the Popes in Anagni, Medieval papal palace and art museum in Anagni, Italy
The Palace of the Popes in Anagni, also called Palazzo Bonifacio VIII, is a large stone building beside the cathedral, entered through a Gothic portal. Its walls show several construction phases, with arches on tall columns and a tower. Inside, the museum displays archaeological finds and documents, and the Cistercian Sisters of Charity use part of it as their motherhouse.
The palace was founded in the 13th century as a papal residence and served as a seat of papal power during that era. A violent raid by French forces in 1303 marked the turning point in its history.
The palace is closely linked to Pope Boniface VIII, whose portraits and personal belongings fill the rooms. Visitors can understand how the pope lived here and the authority he commanded.
Visitors find detailed information posted on walls throughout each room, and a clear route guides you through the building. Plan about two to three hours to explore all areas comfortably.
The palace was long called Palazzo di Gregorio IX until the mid-20th century, when archaeologist Giuseppe Marchetti Longhi linked it to Bonifacio VIII and opened a permanent exhibition there in 1950 for the Jubilee of 1300. This became Anagni's first public museum.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,393 contributors worldwide.
