Palace of the Popes

Built in the 13th century, this palace served as the seat of the papacy when Viterbo rivaled Rome as the center of the Catholic world. It is historically significant as the site of the first and longest papal conclave in history, where cardinals were locked in until a new pope was chosen. Pilgrims visit to admire the elegant Gothic loggia and to connect with the city's rich history as a papal refuge.