Padiglione Delle Carrozze, also known as the Carriage Pavilion, is a museum located in the Vatican City that houses a collection of carriages, automobiles, and other transportation modes from the 17th to the 20th centuries.The museum was inaugurated in 1973 and is located in a building that was constructed in 1906 to serve as a garage for the Vatican carriages. The pavilion was designed by the architect Raffaele Stern, who was commissioned by Pope Pius X to create a structure that would be worthy of the Vatican's collection of carriages.

The collection in the Carriage Pavilion includes carriages that were used by the popes, as well as vehicles that were donated to the Vatican over the years. Some of the most notable carriages in the collection include the Berlina of Pope Pius IX, the Berlina of Pope John XXIII, and the Berlina of Pope Paul VI. Each of these carriages is richly decorated with gold leaf, silk, and other luxurious materials. In addition to the carriages, the museum also houses a collection of automobiles that were used by the popes. These include the Mercedes-Benz 300d which was used by Pope Pius XII and the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet which was used by Pope Paul VI. Visitors to the Carriage Pavilion can also see other transportation modes, such as bicycles, sledges, and sedan chairs. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the history of transportation and provides visitors with a fascinating look at the vehicles that were used by the popes throughout the centuries.

Explore Carriage Pavilion

It is dedicated to preserving the rich history of carriages and automobiles that have played an important role in the transportation of Popes and other Vatican officials throughout history.

Grand Gala Berlin

The Grand Gala Berlin carriage is one of the most impressive and ornate carriages on display at the museum. It was built in 1826 and was used to transport Popes and other high-ranking officials during important state occasions. The carriage is decorated with intricate carvings, and gold leaf, and features a canopy adorned with feathers. The carriage was last used during the coronation of Pope Pius X in 1903.

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Berlin of Cardinal Luciano Luigi Bonaparte

The Berlin of Cardinal Luciano Luigi Bonaparte is another important carriage on display at the museum. It was built in 1855 and was used by the Cardinal during his time as Secretary of State for Pope Pius IX. The carriage is made of mahogany and features gilded carvings, red velvet upholstery, and gold leaf accents. The carriage is a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who created it and the importance of carriages in the transportation of high-ranking officials.

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Gala Berlin with the throne

The Gala Berlin with throne carriage is another stunning example of the craftsmanship that went into the creation of carriages during the 19th century. The carriage was built in 1838 and was used by Pope Gregory XVI during important state occasions. The carriage features a luxurious red velvet interior and a throne for the Pope to sit on during his travels.

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The Vatican Garage Collection of Carriages

The Vatican Garage Collection of Carriages is a collection of carriages used by Popes and Vatican officials dating back to the 16th century. The collection includes carriages used for both everyday transportation and for important state occasions. The collection is a testament to the importance of carriages in Vatican history and the skill of the craftsmen who created them.

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Travelling Carriage

The travelling carriage on display at the Carriage Pavilion is a beautiful example of a carriage used for everyday transportation. The carriage was built in 1863 and features a sleek black exterior and a red velvet interior. It was used by Popes and other Vatican officials for short trips around the city and is a reminder of the important role carriages played in transportation before the advent of automobiles.

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Collection of Automobiles

In addition to carriages, the Carriage Pavilion also houses a collection of historic automobiles. The collection includes vehicles used by Popes and Vatican officials, as well as cars donated by various car manufacturers. Some of the highlights of the collection include a 1929 Cadillac used by Pope Pius XI and a 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster.

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How can I book Vatican Museum tickets in advance?

You can book Vatican Museum tickets in advance through the official Vatican Museums website or through authorized ticket vendors. Online booking allows you to select your preferred entry time and date, making your visit more convenient.

What is the Padiglione Delle Carrozze?

The Padiglione Delle Carrozze, also known as the Carriage Pavilion, is a museum in Rome that houses a collection of carriages, coaches, and other vehicles from the 16th to the 19th centuries. It is part of the larger complex of the Museo di Roma at Palazzo Braschi.

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What kind of carriages are on display at the Padiglione Delle Carrozze?

The museum's collection includes a variety of carriages, coaches, and other vehicles used for transportation and leisure during the 16th to 19th centuries. This includes ornate ceremonial carriages used by the papacy and Italian nobility, as well as more simple coaches used for everyday transportation.

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What is the history of the Padiglione Delle Carrozze?

The Carriage Pavilion was first established in 1920 as a way to preserve and display the collection of carriages owned by the Municipality of Rome. The collection was originally housed in the Palazzo dei Conservatori before being moved to its current location in the Palazzo Braschi in the 1980s.

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What are some of the highlights of the collection at the Padiglione Delle Carrozze?

One of the most famous carriages on display is the Carrozza di Gala, a ceremonial carriage used by the papacy during the 18th century. The carriage is adorned with intricate decorations and was used for special occasions, such as papal processions and coronations. Other highlights include the Carrozza del Trionfo, a triumphal carriage used by Napoleon Bonaparte during his coronation as King of Italy, and the Carrozza di Pio IX, a carriage used by Pope Pius IX.

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Is the Padiglione Delle Carrozze accessible to visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Carriage Pavilion is accessible to visitors with disabilities. The museum has a dedicated entrance and elevator for visitors in wheelchairs or with mobility issues, and there are also accessible restrooms available. Visitors are encouraged to contact the museum in advance to arrange for any special assistance needed during their visit.

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