It hosted the 1268-1271 papal conclave, which lasted 33 months and led to the creation of the term 'conclave' from the Latin 'cum clave' (with a key) as citizens locked the cardinals inside to force an election.
The roof of the Great Hall was famously removed by the local magistrate during the 1268 conclave to expose the cardinals to the elements and pressure them to reach a decision.
The Gothic loggia was constructed to project papal authority, though its design was compromised by a lack of funds and structural symmetry issues.
The building was the primary residence for several popes, including Urban IV, Clement IV, and Gregory X.
The facade incorporates the coat of arms of the Gatti family, who played a major role in local Viterbo politics during the 13th century.
The Palazzo dei Papi in Viterbo served as the papal residence during the 13th century, notably hosting the first and longest papal conclave in history. Built between 1255 and 1266, the structure is defined by its dramatic Gothic loggia featuring seven arches supported by slender columns. It sits adjacent to the Viterbo Cathedral, sharing the Piazza San Lorenzo hilltop plateau. The building gained historical significance when Pope Alexander IV moved the papal court to Viterbo to escape political strife in Rome. The loggia's architectural design includes a distinct, non-symmetrical layout that reflects the urgency of its medieval construction. The interior preserves original medieval masonry and vaulting consistent with Romanesque-Gothic transition periods. Today, it functions as a museum managed by the ArcheoAres cooperative.
From the center of Piazza San Lorenzo looking up at the loggia against the backdrop of the sky.
Visit the adjoining Cathedral of San Lorenzo simultaneously to see the site of the original papal throne.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the hilltop cobblestones near the palace are uneven and can be slippery.
Check the official ArcheoAres website before visiting, as the palace occasionally hosts private cultural events that may restrict access to certain rooms.
Do not mistake the modern town buildings surrounding the plateau for the original palace; look for the distinct Gothic arches of the loggia.
Generally closed on Mondays during the off-season; check website for seasonal shifts.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the Great Hall and avoid touching the medieval frescoes and structural masonry.
