On 9 December 2025 Sapienza University of Rome officially presented Qolossus 2.0, the
first Italian photonic quantum computer.
Qolossus 2.0 is based on photons, the quanta of light, rather than superconducting
circuits. This approach allows the system to operate at room temperature and makes it
naturally compatible with quantum communication networks, which also rely on photons to
transmit information. In addition to standard qubits, the platform can process higher-
dimensional quantum units, known as qudits, enabling a more efficient encoding of
information and opening new perspectives for quantum algorithms and applications. The
photonic architecture also promises reduced energy consumption compared to
conventional quantum computing solutions.
The core processor consists of integrated photonic circuits fabricated in Italy using
advanced laser-based nanofabrication techniques, while quantum light sources are
generated on dedicated chips and connected via optical fibers.
The project was developed within the framework of the PNRR ICSN – “Italian National
Research Center on High Performance Computing, Big Data and Quantum Computing” –
coordinated by Sapienza University of Rome and led by Fabio Sciarrino, head of the
Quantum Lab. Key contributions were provided by the Institute of Photonics and
Nanotechnologies of the National Research Council (CNR) in Milan, coordinated by
Roberto Osellame, and by the research group at the University of Pavia led by Daniele
Bajoni.
“Qolossus 2.0 is now fully operational,” said Sciarrino at the presentation. “Our next goals
are to use it to develop new quantum algorithms and to further enhance the architecture,
increasing its complexity and interconnection with other quantum devices”.
The project fits into Italy’s broader strategy to strengthen its role in quantum technologies,
leverage its long-standing expertise in photonics, and foster technological autonomy and
innovation.
Media coverage (in Italian)