Palazzo Chigi - Piazza Colonna, Rome - Flags over Italy’s Government Palace

Palazzo Chigi overlooks Piazza Colonna in central Rome, with the Italian and European flags marking the historic palace as the seat of the Italian Government.

Palazzo Chigi stands prominently on Piazza Colonna in the historic center of Rome, its elegant facade distinguished here by the Italian and European Union flags above the main entrance. Since 1961, the historic palace has served as the seat of the Italian Government and the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, placing it at the heart of the country’s modern political life. The history of Palazzo Chigi began in the mid-16th century, when the Aldobrandini family commissioned its construction from architect Matteo Bartolini of Città di Castello. In 1659, the still-unfinished palace was purchased by Mario and Agostino Chigi, members of the influential family of Pope Alexander VII. Architect Felice della Greca subsequently completed important parts of the building, including its elegant courtyard and monumental staircase. After periods as a noble residence and diplomatic headquarters, the palace was acquired by the Kingdom of Italy in 1916 and later housed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before becoming the seat of government in 1961.