Alessandrina Ward

At the center of the south wall, behind the ciborium, is the portal leading to the Alessandrina Ward. Built in the 17th century by architect Mattia de Rossi at the behest of Pope Alexander VII Chigi, it was designed as a third, perpendicular wing to the main wards, intended to serve as a small hospital for the wounded. Since 1933, the space has housed the Museum of Medical Art and the academy of the same name. Above the portal, the heraldic emblem of the Chigi family is prominently displayed.