By peering through the latch of the gate, you can admire the dome of St. Peter’s, framed by the hedges of the Priory Gardens. Through the keyhole, you can glimpse St. Peter’s from a unique perspective.
The Villa of the Priory of Malta (Grand Priory of Rome of the Order of Malta), located on the Aventine Hill in Rome, is famous for its “keyhole,” which offers a unique view of St. Peter’s Dome.
The keyhole in the main door of the Villa del Priorato di Malta on the Aventine Hill is one of the most secret and evocative glimpses of Rome, offering a magical perspective of the dome of St. Peter’s.
A spectacular optical illusion
The famous keyhole allows a view of St. Peter’s dome, perfectly framed by a long hedged avenue in the priory garden.
Besides being located on extraterritorial soil of the Order of Malta, it offers the only naked-eye view that encompasses three countries at once: Italy, Malta (the priory’s property), and the Vatican City, visible in the distant dome.
The door is always closed to the public, therefore the priory cannot be entered: access is limited to looking through the keyhole from outside.
The view is enchanting both during the day and at night, when the dome is illuminated, creating an even more evocative scenic effect.
The alignment, with a perspective view of St. Peter’s dome, appears to be the result of a refined architectural design attributed to Giovanni Battista Piranesi, who redesigned the square and portal in 1765, giving it that aura of mystery and charm that continues to attract curious visitors from around the world today.
To visit the famous keyhole no reservation or ticket is required: the keyhole is free and freely accessible, 24 hours a day, directly from the sidewalk, looking through the external door.
Just go there, wait in line (when available), and admire the famous view of St. Peter’s Dome perfectly framed.
Ideal time: Sunset offers warm colors and a romantic atmosphere, but the dome’s nighttime illumination is equally spectacular.
(closed gate in the square)
Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta 4
Rome
Lazio – Italy
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