Keyhole of the Order of Malta

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The gardens behind the gate are strictly off-limits to the public and remain one of Rome's most exclusive private spaces.

2. 2

   The door was designed by the architect and engraver Giovanni Battista Piranesi as part of his only architectural project in Rome.

3. 3

   The alignment is so precise that the dome of St. Peter's appears significantly larger and closer than it would be to the naked eye from that distance.

4. 4

   The Sovereign Military Order of Malta, which owns the building, holds the status of a sovereign subject of international law with its own passports and stamps.

5. 5

   The piazza in front of the gate, Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta, was also redesigned by Piranesi to include limestone trophies and obelisk-like decorations.

Overview

The Keyhole of the Order of Malta is located on the Aventine Hill in Rome at the Priory of the Knights of Malta. Looking through the keyhole of the main entrance gate provides a perfectly framed, magnified view of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica. The perspective is achieved by the precise placement of hedge tunnels within the Priory’s private gardens that act as a natural viewfinder. The building behind the gate serves as the headquarters of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. The site is a private property of the Order, which is recognized as a sovereign entity under international law. The keyhole is set into a plain, heavy wooden door designed by Giovanni Battista Piranesi in 1765.

Insider tips

• Expect a queue; visitors often line up to take turns at the keyhole.

• There is no lighting at night, so visit during daylight hours to see the dome clearly.

• Bring a smartphone or camera with a high-zoom lens to attempt to capture the view, though results vary by device.