BERNINI, Gian Lorenzo
(b. 1598, Napoli, d. 1680, Roma)

Benediction loggia

1635
Photo
Palazzo Quirinale, Rome

The Quirinal Palace, located on the Via del Quirinale and facing onto the Piazza del Quirinale, was built in 1583 by Pope Gregory XIII on the top of the Quirinal Hill as a papal summer residence. The Barberini Pope Urban VIII extended the piazza to make more space for pilgrims gathering in hope of receiving papal blessing. The loggia to the piazza was designed by Bernini, as was the watchtower which cut the square off from the city below.