The Galleon Room

The Grand Stairway of Honour leads to the ‘Sala dei Galeoni’ [‘Galleon Room’], which takes its name from the modern white stucco bas-reliefs positioned above the doors. These decorations date back to the turn of the 20th century, when Palazzo Chigi became home to the Ministry of Colonies.

These bas-reliefs match the room’s richly decorated cornice that runs along the walls, featuring the faces of 72 different women that represent the world’s different ethnic groups.

The Galleon Room was created by using the space once occupied by the Aldobrandini staircase and is the work of architect Felice Della Greca, who also built the Grand Stairway of Honour.

A large chandelier from Murano adorns the room - a modern day purchase but in 18th century style. Two large canvases by Giovan Battista Pace hang from the walls, recreating the frescoes by Giuseppe Cesari (also known as the ‘Cavalier d'Arpino’) in Palazzo dei Conservatori in Campidoglio: the ‘Battle of Tullus Hostilius against the Veientes and the Fidenates’ and the ‘Battle between Horatii and Curiatii’.

A pair of 18th century terracotta pieces called ‘Day and Night’ by Bartolomeo Cavaceppi are also on display in the room.

This room is usually used by the President of the Council of Ministers to issue press statements following meetings with Heads of State and Government.

The Galleon Room leads to the ‘Globe Room’ to the left and the ‘Tapestry Rooms’ to the right.