Discover the astronomical observatories of the Vatican Observatory of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo. Climb to the third floor of the palace and admire the view of Lake Castel Gandolfo from the panoramic terrace. For the first time in almost ninety years since their construction, the astronomical domes of the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo are opening their doors to visitors.

These are two perfectly functioning astronomical observatories of the Vatican Observatory: the “major dome” with a diameter of 8.5 meters, equipped with a Visual Telescope, for observing stars and planets; and the “minor dome”, with a diameter of 8 meters, with the Double Astrograph, used for photographic surveys of the sky and the position of the stars. Access allows, via a spiral staircase, access to the third floor of the Papal Palace, on the highest point of the panoramic terrace, which offers a splendid view of the lake of Castel Gandolfo. Pius XI, on September 29, 1935, inaugurated the new headquarters of the Vatican Observatory, as its transfer from the villa that Leo XIII had built in the Vatican Gardens became necessary due to the City's light pollution.

The astronomical observatory was thus refounded and entrusted to the Jesuits, equipping the Observatory with three new telescopes and an astrophysical laboratory for spectrochemical analysis. Among the various study programs of the new institution, in those years, important research on variable stars should be remembered.

Discover the Papal Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope
Admire the panoramic views of Lake Albano from the Papal Palace's terrace
Visit the Vatican Observatory and learn about the history of the Jesuit-run site
See the two astronomical observatories of the Vatican Observatory
Climb the spiral staircase to the third floor of the Papal Palace

Important to know

Not allowed:

This activity is not permitted for children under 7 years old, for safety reasons

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Entrance fees

Audio guide
Transportation

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Piazza della Libertà, 12, 00040 Castel Gandolfo RM, Italia

Meeting point:

Castel Gandolfo (located 24 kilometers from Rome) at the main entrance of the Papal Palace. On the day of the visit, show the reservation voucher to the reception staff (20 minutes before the scheduled time).