Astronomical Domes of the Papal Palace
In Castel Gandolfo, the Vatican Observatory offers visitors the opportunity to step into the heart of its history and discover the two Astronomical Domes of the Papal Palace, which still house historic instruments and telescopes dedicated to the study of the sky.
The Vatican Observatory, moved to Castel Gandolfo in 1935, at the initiative of Pope Pius XI, as increasing light pollution made astronomical observations from the Vatican increasingly difficult. Since then, the terraces of the Papal Palace have been closed linked to the history of the Vatican Observatory’s scientific activities.
The larger dome, approximately 8.5 metres in diameter, houses a Visual Telescope, designed for the direct observation of celestial bodies, while the smaller dome, approximately 8 metres in diameter, houses the Double Astrograf, used for astronomical photography and for studying the positions of celestial bodies.
The tour leads to the highest point of the Papal Palace, on the panoramic terrace overlooking lake Castel Gandolfo, offering visitors the opportunity to explore two authentic astronomical observatories, preserved in their original structure and historic equipment and to experience a unique setting where history, science and panoramic views come together.
Reservations can be made online through the official Vatican Museums website, in the section dedicated to the Astronomical Domes:
Book your visit to the Astronomical Domes
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USEFUL INFORMATION FOR VISITORS:
· The visit takes place in small groups up to 20 people.
· The visit lasts approximately 45 minutes.
· Due to characteristics of the itinerary, which includes a spiral staircase, the visit is not accessible to strollers or wheelchair users. It is also not recommended for people with walking difficulties, heart conditions, claustrophobia or vertigo, or for pregnant women.
· Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended.