It numbers some splendid apartments, containing many works of art; and
the gardens are of considerable extent. It is the residence of King
Humbert, and is accessible to the public; but should the royal family
be at home, the private apartments are not shown; otherwise it may be
readily viewed on presenting your card at the entrance. Guido Reni's
beautiful picture of the Annunciation is in the small private chapel,
as also the frescoes of the life of the Virgin, by Albani. The casino
in the gardens is decorated with frescoes by Oritonti, Battoni, and
Paolini. The palace was founded by Gregory XIII. in the year 1574, and
completed by Clement X., several intermediate popes having done much
for its extension and embellishment, notably Clement VIII. Urban VIII.
enclosed and added the present garden, and Gregory XVI. and Pius IX.
made the palace what it is--that is to say, one of the most sumptuous
and attractive palaces in Italy. Few of our readers will require to be
informed that the Quirinal was the place appointed for the conclave
when the new Pope was elected, and that Pope Pius IX. was the last
successor of S. Peter who was proclaimed from the balcony overhanging
the principal entrance.
_On the left, beyond the fountain, within the high wall, is the_