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Palazzo Senatorio | The heart of Rome’s political heritage

RomeMusei CapitoliniPalazzo Senatorio

Palazzo Senatorio | The official seat of Rome’s mayor

Palazzo Senatorio is one of the three impressive buildings that make up the Capitoline Museums. Designed by the famous Michelangelo, its beautiful façade and grand double staircase are a nod to Renaissance architecture. Today, Palazzo Senatorio is still buzzing with activity, serving as the Roman city hall and playing a key role in the city's politics.

Note: Unlike the other two palazzos in the Capitoline Museum, the Senatorio is not open to the public or tourists and can only be visited during special events.

Plan your visit to Palazzo Senatorio

Opening hours

Daily: 9:30am to 7:30pm

December 24 and December 31: 9:30am to 2pm

Last entry: An hour before closing time.

Closed: May 1 and December 25.

Best time to visit: Sunsets are beautiful at the Capitoline Museums, and you might want to catch them. In the summer, sunset is later (around 8:30pm), so you might want to plan your visit closer to 6pm. In the winter, when the sun sets earlier (around 5pm), an entry time of around 3pm would work best. Another great time to visit the Capitoline Museums, considering weather, is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, Rome experiences pleasant, mild temperatures.

Detailed Capitoline Museums timings
Location

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 00186 Rome, Italy

Find on maps

The Palazzo Senatorio is situated on Capitoline Hill in Rome, Italy, near other important landmarks like the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. This historic landmark is a key component of the Capitoline Museums, which also encompass the Palazzo Nuovo and Palazzo dei Conservatori, establishing it as a focal point for art and history in the city.

Closest landmark: Capitoline Piazza, 1 min away

Detailed directions to Capitoline Museums

Visitor tips

  • While the Senatorio is not open to the public, it remains a stunning sight worth visiting. Admire Michelangelo’s remarkable architecture and appreciate its political and historical significance.
  • Before your visit, look out for any scaffolding, as the building occasionally undergoes construction. While you can still enjoy its main features, construction may affect the overall view and experience.
  • If you're looking for a place to eat after exploring the Palazzo Senatorio, consider Pasta In Corso Cavour for a delicious pasta dish or Ago & Lillo Bistrot for a flavorful prawn risotto.
  • The Roman Forum and the Colosseum are within walking distance, making it easy to combine your visits. Additionally, Trajan’s Market, known as the world’s first covered shopping mall, is only a 9-minute walk away.

Highlights of Palazzo Senatorio

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The Tabularium

The Tabularium is an ancient record office located beneath the Palazzo Senatorio. It served as the storage site for bronze tabulae containing Rome's laws and official documents. Completed by Quintus Lutatius Catulus in 78 BC, it was part of a public works program to redevelop the Capitoline Hill after a fire in 83 BC.

The double stairway

Michelangelo redesigned the staircase in the 1500s, transforming it from a single to a grand double staircase at Pope Paul III's request to impress Charles V. With wider, accessible steps, it begins at each wing, gently sloping upward to merge at the grand doorway on the second story. 

The fountain

The Fountain of the Goddess, located in Piazza del Campidoglio beneath the Palazzo Senatorio, is one of two fountains of its name in Rome; the other is in Piazza del Popolo. Designed by Michelangelo, it exemplifies the city’s artistic beauty.

Michelangelo’s facade

Michelangelo’s facade is a fantastic example of Renaissance architecture, highlighted by its impressive portico and flawless proportions. The upper section was designed by Michelangelo, boasting big Corinthian pilasters that harmonize beautifully with the two adjacent buildings. The current facade we see today was built in the late 16th century by Giacomo Della Porta and Girolamo Rainaldi.

Replica of Emperor Marcus Aurelius’s bronze statue

The replica of Emperor Marcus Aurelius’s bronze statue stands in the Piazza del Campidoglio, symbolizing his authority and wisdom. The original statue, a rare surviving equestrian depiction, is in Palazzo dei Conservatori.

Roman statues representing the Nile and Tiber

The statues of the river gods Nile and Tiber near the fountain symbolize the importance of these waterways in Roman civilization. The fountain also features Dea Roma, the ancient Roman deity who also represents the state.

The history of Palazzo Senatorio in a nutshell

  • 196 BC: A temple dedicated to Veiove is constructed on Piazza del Campidoglio.
  • 1st Century AD: The temple is rebuilt, preserving its unique rectangular plan with a small portico. Surviving elements include the travertine podium and the cella.
  • 78 BC: The Tabularium, a public archive for Roman laws and documents, is built next to the Palazzo Senatorio. Only an arcaded gallery remains from this structure today.
  • Middle Ages (5th-14th Centuries): Roman ruins are incorporated into a fortress. In 1143, the Palazzo becomes the seat of the newly established free Municipality of Rome, housing its first senators.
  • 14th Century: The Palazzo takes on a monumental appearance with a facade featuring three orders of arches, although many arches are later walled up as the building becomes more enclosed.
  • 1537: Pope Paul III commissions Michelangelo to renew the Capitoline buildings, including plans for a double flight staircase and a balustrade intended for statues.
  • 1564: Michelangelo passes away while overseeing the project, which is subsequently altered by his followers.
  • Late 16th Century: The current facade, designed by Giacomo Della Porta and Girolamo Rainaldi, is completed, showcasing the statues of the Tiber and Nile (originally from the Terme di Costantino) alongside a statue of Minerva-Goddess Roma.
  • 1578-1582: Martino Longhi the Elder constructs the tower of the Palazzo.
  • 1849: The Palazzo hosts the Constituent Assembly of the Roman Republic, which is later disbanded by French troops.
  • 1870: The Municipal Council of Rome establishes its seat in the Council Hall, which displays flags of the Municipality and coats of arms of popes and senators.
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Frequently asked questions about Palazzo Senatorio

What architectural styles can be seen in the Palazzo Senatorio?

The Palazzo Senatorio features a blend of architectural styles, primarily Renaissance and Baroque. Its façade is characterized by elegant columns, a grand staircase, and intricate sculptures.

Why can’t the public enter the Palazzo Senatorio?

Since the building is primarily used for government functions, it can’t be open to the public. You can still explore certain areas, such as the beautiful courtyard.

What is inside the Palazzo Senatorio?

The Palazzo Senatorio houses the Mayor's office and the Municipal Council of Rome, featuring the Council Hall adorned with the flags of the Municipality and the 22 Rioni, as well as coats of arms of popes and senators.

How do I get to the Palazzo Senatorio?

The Palazzo Senatorio is accessible via public transportation. The nearest metro station is Colosseo (Line B). It is also within walking distance from many other major attractions in Rome such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Are there any special events held at the Palazzo Senatorio?

Yes, the Palazzo Senatorio occasionally hosts special events and ceremonies, especially during significant cultural or historical anniversaries. 

More reads

Capitoline Wolf

Palazzo dei Conservatori

Palazzo Nuovo