description Lateran Palace Overview
The Lateran Palace is a historic building in Rome, Italy, located near the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, which serves as the cathedral church of the Bishop of Rome. From the 4th century until the relocation of the papal seat to Avignon in the 14th century, it functioned as the principal papal residence. The current structure was largely rebuilt in the late 16th century under Pope Sixtus V. Today it houses the Vatican Historical Museum and several administrative offices of the Holy See.
help Lateran Palace FAQ
Is the Lateran Palace the same building as the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran?
No. The palace is a separate building within the Lateran complex, while the Archbasilica is the cathedral church of the Bishop of Rome. Both stand near the site of the ancient papal residence known as the Patriarchium. [Turismo Roma](https://www.turismoroma.it/en/places/lateran-palace)
Why is the Lateran Palace important to Vatican history?
The Lateran Treaty was signed inside the palace on February 11, 1929. It regulated relations between Italy and the Holy See and established the legal basis for Vatican City. [Vatican information](https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/secretariat_state/documents/informazione_generale_en.html)
Was the Lateran Palace once the pope's residence?
The ancient Lateran complex served as a papal residence from the 4th century until the papal move to Avignon in 1309 and later to the Vatican. The present palace was rebuilt for Pope Sixtus V by architect Domenico Fontana between 1585 and 1589. [Archbasilica history](https://www.basilicasangiovanni.va/en/san-giovanni-in-laterano/palazzo-lateranense/il-palazzo-di-sisto-v.html)
What is housed in the Lateran Palace today?
The palace houses the Vatican Historical Museum on its main floor, where visitors can see papal portraits, ceremonial objects, and material connected with the former Papal States. The museum has occupied the palace since 1987. [Vatican Historical Museum](https://www.italia.it/en/lazio/rome/vatican-historical-museum)
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