Located on the tallest of the Seven Hills of Rome, the Piazza del Quirinale offers splendid views of the city. Three of its sides are flanked by imposing buildings.
One of the most striking elements of the square is the obelisk, which is located next to the statues on which Castor and Pollux, patrons of horse riders, are taming horses.
Before being moved to the square, the statues were placed at the entrance of the Baths of Constantine, while the obelisk decorated the Mausoleum of Augustus.
Built in 1573 as a summer residence for the Pope, the Palazzo del Quirinale became the Italian royal residence after the unification of Italy. From 1947 the building served as a residence for the president of the Republic.
The changing of the guard ceremony takes place every day at 3:00 pm in front of the Palazzo Quirinale.
Although not as well known as the changing of the guard in London, seeing the show and enjoying the festive music played by the band is worthwhile.
Quirinale Hill.



