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Top 5 art galleries in Rome with the Roma Pass
When in Rome, do as the Roman’s do. Or at least appreciate how the Romans have done it. Rome is bursting with cultural outlets documenting its history over time. From the Coliseum to the Capitoline Museums, there is plenty of art to be admired – some might say too much, if you’re pushed for time. To make it easy, let’s look at the top 5 art galleries in Rome to get your cultural fix. From the contemporary to the classic, there’s so much to be seen – and with the Roma Pass you can see it all for free. Even better! Capitoline Museums One of the most important art galleries in Rome, the Capitoline Museums were founded in 1471 with the donation of some bronze statues by Pope Sixtus IV. Recognised as a museum of the people, it was created as a testament to Roman history and contains the iconic She-Wolf statue – one of the original donations. The museum now contains ancient Roman statues, medieval and Renaissance art works as well as a collection of jewels and coins. Don’t miss the chapel dedicated to the Patron Saints of Rome decorated with stunning frescoes. Museum of Rome The Museum of Rome can be found in the Palazzo Braschi, nestled in the heart of the city. A fine example of Baroque history, this museum celebrates Renaissance art in particular and displays art from the Middle Ages through to the mid-20th century. Visitors can admire work of art from a wide range of Roman artists in two separate collections, as well as a 2,000 piece ceramic collection and 160 frescoes. You can even see pieces of the old mosaics from the façade of St Peter’s Basilica, dating back to 1230. MAXXI The Museum of 21st century art in Rome focuses on contemporary art through various mediums and how it’s changed over time. With a wide range of exhibitions exploring the breaking down of barriers and challenging conformism, to an iconographical dictionary and collage of images and videos the gallery promises – and succeeds – to inspire and impress. Don’t miss the architecture and photography collections, too which look into both 20th and 21st century concepts. Borghese Gallery For something more classical, you can’t beat the Borghese Gallery for a truly Roman art experience. Housed in the Villa Borghese, this gallery contains masterpieces of some of the great Italian artists including Caravaggio, Botticelli and Raphael. The Sala de Sileno is considered one of the gallery’s most impressive rooms, containing David with the head of Goliath and Young sick Bacchus. Visitors can also admire some of Bernini’s sculptures, including the iconic Apollo and Daphne. Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums You can’t leave Rome without having experienced the grandeur of the Vatican Museums and having witnessed the spectacular Sistine Chapel ceiling. This notable museum contains over 9 miles of art and sculptures, from ancient Egypt to the 20th century. Look out for the portrait of the Popes and the corridor of statues before heading into the Sistine Chapel for Michelangelo’s The Last Judgement. Although you can’t take photos, take a mental picture of this incredible feat of art. Don’t forget to admire the murals, too, which were painting by Botticelli and often overlooked. With the Roma Pass you can get free entry into 2 of the above art galleries, and the rest at a discounted price. A bargain for any culture vulture! To find out more about the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Card, click here.
