Raphael Rooms

The four Raphael rooms are the common part of a group of papal residences. They are notable for the frescoes created by Raphael and his studio. Together with Michelangelo's ceiling paintings in the Sistine Chapel, they constitute a grand series of frescoes that marked the Roman Renaissance. These rooms were originally intended as the residence of Julius II. He commissioned the young Urbino artist Raphael to completely renovate the interior in 1508 or 1509. Julius II's intention may have been to outwit his predecessor (and rival) Alexander VI, as these rooms are located directly above the Borgia residence where Alexander VI lived. They are located on the third floor overlooking the south side of the viewing atrium. Visitors entering these rooms, from east to west, pass through the Constantine Hall, the Eliodoro Hall, the Signature Hall and the Borgo Fire Hall.