Built by Michelangelo in 1546 and today the home of the French embassy, this is one of Rome's most beautiful palazzi. It owes its construction to Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, who became pope in 1534. The delicately coloured façade is simple in style thanks to its lack of pilasters and the plain cornice framing the top of the building. The inner courtyard is a perfect example of Renaissance elegance, while the richly decorated interior includes remarkable frescoes (1595-1603) by the Carracci brothers.