Octagonal Court

Why go

This court was an early centre of the papal collection of ancient sculpture. Its open layout gives the Laocoön and Apollo distinct positions, so you can move between two very different classical figures instead of seeing them as one crowded display. The setting also explains why this area became a landmark within the museum.

What to look for

• The Laocoön group occupies one part of the open court.
• Apollo Belvedere is displayed in the same court.

Useful to know

• Leave time to view the sculptures from more than one position around the court.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.