Carriage Pavilion
A Journey through Time among Papal Carriages and Historic Vehicles
The Carriage Pavilion houses a unique collection of historical vehicles used by the popes, including baroque carriages, vintage cars, and even the 'popemobile'. Each vehicle tells a story of papal journeys, ceremonies and important meetings. This exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the history of Vatican mobility and protocol. Book your tickets online to explore the Carriage Pavilion and experience a journey through time and tradition without having to queue long!
Useful information
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.).
- Tickets: It is recommended to buy tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Location: Inside the Vatican Museums, accessible with the same ticket.
- Accessibility: Accessible routes for people with disabilities.
- Additional services: Audio guides available in various languages.
How to get there
To reach the Vatican Museums in Rome, there are several transport options, depending on the starting point and personal preference:
Underground
The metro is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get to the Vatican Museums. You should take the Line A (orange line) and get off at the 'Ottaviano - San Pietro - Musei Vaticani' stop. From there, the museums are about a 10-minute walk away. Upon exiting the metro, follow the signs to the Vatican Museums.
Bus
Several buses stop near the Vatican Museums. The most useful lines are:
- Line 49It stops right in front of the entrance to the museums.
- Routes 32, 81, 982They stop in Piazza del Risorgimento, a few steps from the entrance.
- Lines 492, 990stop in Via Leone IV / Via degli Scipioni.
Tram
You can also take tram number 19 and get off at the 'Piazza del Risorgimento' stop, which is close to the Vatican Museums.
On foot
If you are already in the centre of Rome, you might consider walking to the museums. For example, it takes about 30 minutes to walk from Piazza Navona.
Taxi or Car Rental
Taxis are readily available throughout Rome and are a convenient option if you want a direct journey. Car hire can also be an option, but bear in mind that parking near museums can be limited.
History
The Carriage Pavilion in the Vatican Museums is a section dedicated to the history of the means of transport used by the Popes. Opened to the public in 1973, the pavilion houses a unique collection illustrating the evolution of papal transport over the centuries.
The collection originates with ceremonial carriages, magnificent examples of craftsmanship and luxury. These carriages, used for official events and ceremonies, reflect the splendour and importance of the occasions on which they were used. Each carriage is richly decorated and represents a different era in the history of the papacy.
With the advent of the automobile, the Vatican began to modernise its means of transport. The pavilion includes historical vehicles such as the first 'popemobile', designed to ensure safety and visibility during public appearances by the Pope. These vehicles symbolise the growing security and mobility needs of the modern Church.
The Carriage Pavilion offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of papal transport, emphasising the importance of these vehicles in the context of the Vatican's public and ceremonial activities. It is a must-see for anyone wishing to better understand the link between tradition and innovation in the heart of Vatican City.
The Carriage Pavilion in the Vatican Museums is a section dedicated to the history of the means of transport used by the Popes. Opened to the public in 1973, the pavilion houses a unique collection illustrating the evolution of papal transport over the centuries.
The collection originates with ceremonial carriages, magnificent examples of craftsmanship and luxury. These carriages, used for official events and ceremonies, reflect the splendour and importance of the occasions on which they were used. Each carriage is richly decorated and represents a different era in the history of the papacy.
With the advent of the automobile, the Vatican began to modernise its means of transport. The pavilion includes historical vehicles such as the first 'popemobile', designed to ensure safety and visibility during public appearances by the Pope. These vehicles symbolise the growing security and mobility needs of the modern Church.
The Carriage Pavilion offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of papal transport, emphasising the importance of these vehicles in the context of the Vatican's public and ceremonial activities. It is a must-see for anyone wishing to better understand the link between tradition and innovation in the heart of Vatican City.
Reviews
A Dive into History
A Surprising Experience
A Hidden Jewel
Perfect for Motoring Enthusiasts
A Relaxing Break
Tips
Plan your visit in advance
The Carriage Pavilion inside the Vatican Museums is one of the lesser known but fascinating sections, where historical carriages, cars and other means of transport used by the popes are displayed. To fully enjoy your visit, it is advisable to book your tickets online in advance, especially during the high season. This way, you can avoid long queues and better organise your itinerary within the vast museum complex.
Learn more about the History of the Pontifical Carriages
Before you go to the Carriage Pavilion, take some time to study the history of the papal carriages and vehicles on display. This will enable you to better appreciate the details and historical importance of each piece. Many carriages on display were used on official occasions and important ceremonies, and knowing the historical context makes the experience more engaging and enriching. You can also consider the option of an audio guide or a guided tour to get more information during the tour.
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