Palazzo Montecitorio, Rome

Palazzo Montecitorio is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Rome, Italy, serving as a significant landmark with its rich history and political importance. Constructed in the seventeenth century, this palace is the seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, one of the two houses of the Italian Parliament.

The design of Palazzo Montecitorio was originally commissioned to the acclaimed architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini by Pope Innocent X, but it was ultimately completed by Carlo Fontana. The building is a stunning example of Baroque architecture, with its elegant façade featuring Corinthian columns and a grandiose clock added in the eighteenth century.

Visitors to Rome seeking a deeper understanding of Italy's political history will find Palazzo Montecitorio a fascinating destination. While the palace is primarily a functioning government building, it occasionally opens its doors to the public for guided tours. These tours offer a rare glimpse into the ornate interiors, including the Chamber of Deputies, where Italian lawmakers convene.

The exterior of Palazzo Montecitorio is equally impressive, standing in the Piazza di Montecitorio, which is also home to an ancient Egyptian obelisk brought to Rome in 10 BC by Emperor Augustus. This juxtaposition of ancient and Baroque elements creates a unique cultural landscape that reflects the layers of Rome's history.