Fodor's Expert Review Palazzo Venezia
Rome's first great Renaissance palace, the centerpiece of an eponymous piazza, was originally built for Venetian cardinal Pietro Barbo (who eventually became Pope Paul II), but it was repurposed in the 20th century by Mussolini, who harangued crowds with speeches from the balcony over its finely carved door. Lights were left on through the night during his reign to suggest that the Fascist leader worked without pause.
The palace is now open to the public, and highlights include frescoes by Giorgio Vasari, an Algardi sculpture of Pope Innocent X, and decorative art exhibits. The loggia has a pleasant view over the tranquil garden courtyard, which seems a million miles away from the chaos of Piazza Venezia on the other side of the building. The ticket price includes an audio guide.
