SOFIA GLOBAL

Palazzo Cesi-Armellini is one of the Renaissance buildings in Rome, situated adjacent to St. Peter’s Square. The palace, with its elegant Dorian-style façade was built for Cardinal Francesco Armellini at the beginning of the 16th century, right where the Roman philosopher Seneca once had his house. The palace is home to ancient paintings, art works and architecture. Palazzo Cesi-Armellini has been the motherhouse of the Salvatorian Fathers and Brothers since 1882. The Palace also featured during World War II, when the then General Superior, Father P. Pfeiffer, acted as the Pope’s trusted negotiator and saved the lives of many Jews, politicians, and partisans persecuted by Nazis by hiding them in the attic of the palace.

In order to share its rich history, art and spirituality, the palace is open to visitors. The guided tour starts in the courtyard, and then proceeds to the “piano nobile” at the first floor, the library and the main chapel with wooden ceilings and paintings dating back to the 17th century, and continues to the small chapel and the museum set up in memory of the Founder of the Salvatorians Father Francis Jordan. The tour ends on the roof terrace with its spectacular view of the dome of St. Peter’s and the city of Rome.

Apart from a small group fee visitors are welcome to make a donation in support of the Salvatorian missions in Africa, Asia and Latin America.