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The Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, was constructed in the 15th century and covers approximately 162,000 square meters. Visitors can view the Vatican Museums, which charge €17 for entry. With over 1,400 rooms, it also houses the Sistine Chapel, completed in 1512.

Published: 10/1/2025
Last Published: 1/26/2026
Updated: 2/13/2026
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All About Vatican City

Learn about The Apostolic Palace

The Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope, was constructed in the 15th century and covers approximately 162,000 square meters. Visitors can view the Vatican Museums, which charge €17 for entry. With over 1,400 rooms, it also houses the Sistine Chapel, completed in 1512.

Marcus Cent
Jan 26, 2026
1 min read
The Apostolic Palace, also known as the Papal Palace, is a significant structure located within Vatican City. This complex serves as the official residence of the Pope and includes various papal apartments, chapels, museums, and administrative offices.
Visiting the Apostolic Palace offers a chance to see the history and cultural heritage of the Catholic Church. The highlight of the palace is the Sistine Chapel, featuring Michelangelo's frescoes, including the "Creation of Adam." Viewing these masterpieces firsthand is a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts and history buffs.
The Apostolic Palace

The Apostolic Palace

Beyond the artistic treasures, the Apostolic Palace also has deep religious significance, serving as the center of the Catholic faith. Visitors can explore the Vatican Museums, which contain an extensive collection of art spanning centuries, including works by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio.
Additionally, the Apostolic Palace offers views of St. Peter's Square and the surrounding Vatican Gardens, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Standing in the historic halls where papal events take place and admiring the artistic brilliance within the Sistine Chapel enhances the visit for individuals interested in art, history, and spirituality. This article is part of our series on Vatican City. See all the attractions of this fascinating city. It's a key stop for visitors to Rome.
"The Apostolic Palace is not merely the residence of the Pope; it is a treasure trove of art and history. Visitors may find themselves in awe of the Borgia Apartments, where every fresco tells a story of spiritual and political power that shaped the Catholic Church."

Giovanni Rossi - Art Historian and Vatican Expert

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External Links

Apostolic Palace - Vatican Museums

Official page of the Vatican Museums detailing the Apostolic Palace and its significance.

Vatican City Official Website

Official Vatican website providing information about the Apostolic Palace and its history.

Rome Tourism - Apostolic Palace

Rome's official tourism site with information about visiting the Apostolic Palace.

Colosseum and Vatican Museums Tickets

Purchase tickets for the Vatican Museums, which include access to the Apostolic Palace.

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Marcus Cent
Marcus Cent

Marcus Cent is the founder of Visit Network, a global portfolio of destination-focused travel sites. With over 25 years of experience in online travel and digital publishing, he specialises in destination research, tours and activities, and travel platforms. His writing is informed by extensive independent travel across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, with a focus on practical, experience-based guidance.

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