Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
4. ST JOHN'S CHAPEL
Just off the Consistory Hall, this decorative gem was created by Matteo Giovanetti, a
leading Sienese artist. The now faded frescoes depict the lives of St John the Baptist
and St John the Evangelist with exceptional use of perspective across the walls and
arched vault.
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5. REFECTORY
It was in the large refectory
(tinel)
that the pope entertained on feast days, such as
a cardinal's appointment or a papal coronation. The pope would eat alone on a dais,
while cardinals and guests were arranged around the room according to rank. The
spectacular barrel-vaulted wooden ceiling was restored in the 1970s.
6. BENEDICT XII'S CLOISTER
These four connecting buildings, surrounding a courtyard, date from 1340. Used for
staff and guest accommodation, they were decorated by the Italian artist Simone
Martini, who died in 1344 while working here. The Benedictine chapel is also part of
the cloister.
7. POPE'S CHAMBER
The pope's bedroom gives a sense of everyday palace life. The pontiffs slept within
blue walls decorated with vine and oak-leaf motifs.
8. STAG ROOM
Clement VI let his extravagant tastes run wild in his study. Frescoes cover all four
walls, with scenes of hunting and fishing against a forest background - the most un-
usual decor in the palace.
9. GREAT CHAPEL
Of massive proportions, 52 m (170 ft) long, 15 m (50 ft) wide and 20 m (65 ft) high,
with seven vaulted bays, the Grande Chapelle was the scene of all kinds of religious
celebrations, including papal coronations.
