Exploring the Capitoline Museums of Rome – A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a trip to Rome and wondering if the Capitoline Museums are worth visiting? Look no further as this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to know about the Capitoline Museums also known as the Musei Capitolini. Located on the Piazza del Campidoglio on top of the Capitoline Hill these museums contain a wealth of art and archaeological treasures. In this guide we will discuss the history of the museums the different buildings and collections practical information and tips for visiting. By the end of this guide you will have a clear understanding of why the Capitoline Museums are an important and mustsee destination in Rome.

History of the Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums have a long and rich history dating back to 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a group of bronze statues known as the Centaur and Lapith to the people of Rome. These statues were placed on the Capitoline Hill which was a symbol of the city’ s political and religious power. The museums officially opened to the public in 1734 under Pope Clement XII who commissioned the architect Alessandro Galilei to design the current buildings. The museums have undergone several renovations and expansions throughout their history with the most recent being the opening of the Centrale Montemartini in 1997.

The Palazzo dei Conservatori

The Palazzo dei Conservatori is one of the two main buildings that make up the Capitoline Museums. It was built in the 16th century and originally served as the residence of the conservators who were responsible for maintaining the city’ s public works. The palazzo now houses several important collections including the Capitoline Art Gallery which contains works by famous Italian artists such as Titian Rubens and Raphael.

The Palazzo Nuovo

The Palazzo Nuovo also known as the New Palace is the second of the two main buildings in the Capitoline Museums. It was built in the 19th century and contains a diverse collection of sculptures including the famous statue of the Capitoline Venus. The palazzo also houses the Hall of the Galatian which is famous for its sculptures of the Gauls.

The Centrale Montemartini

The Centrale Montemartini is the newest addition to the Capitoline Museums. It opened in 1997 and is located in a former power station. The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient Roman sculptures including the famous Dying Gaul. The Centrale Montemartini also contains a collection of industrial artifacts which provides a unique contrast to the ancient sculptures.

Exhibitions and Collections

The Capitoline Museums are home to a diverse range of art and archaeological collections. The museums’ permanent collection includes works from the ancient Roman medieval and Renaissance periods. Some of the highlights include the Capitoline Shewolf a bronze sculpture from the 5th century BC and the famous statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. In addition to the permanent collection the museums also host temporary exhibitions on a regular basis. These exhibitions can include anything from contemporary art to ancient artifacts and are a great way to see new and unique pieces.

The Capitoline Shewolf

One of the most famous and iconic pieces in the Capitoline Museums is the Capitoline Shewolf. This bronze sculpture dating back to the 5th century BC depicts the mythical shewolf nursing the twin brothers Romulus and Remus the legendary founders of Rome. The shewolf is considered a symbol of the city of Rome and is a mustsee for anyone visiting the Capitoline Museums.

Practical Information

The Capitoline Museums are open daily from 930 am to 730 pm. The last admission is at 630 pm. The museums are closed on certain holidays so it is recommended to check the official website before visiting. The museums are located in Piazza del Campidoglio which is easily accessible by metro bus or foot. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo on Line B. Admission to the Capitoline Museums is €11 and can be purchased online or at the museum.

Tickets and Videoguides

Visitors to the Capitoline Museums can purchase tickets online or at the museum. The regular ticket price is €11 and includes access to all of the exhibitions and collections. There are also discounted tickets available for students children and senior citizens. In addition to the regular ticket visitors can also purchase a videoguide for €5 which provides audio descriptions of the museums’ most important works in multiple languages.

Visiting Tips

When visiting the Capitoline Museums it is important to plan your visit in advance. The museums have a lot to offer and it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of art and artifacts on display. To make the most of your visit it is recommended to start with the permanent collection and then move on to the temporary exhibitions. Also take a break when you need to museums can be tiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the Capitoline Museums worth visiting?
   Yes the Capitoline Museums are a mustsee destination in Rome as they are home to a wealth of art and archaeological treasures.
2. Is the Capitoline Museum free?
   No the Capitoline Museum has an admission fee of €11.
3. What to see at the Capitoline Museum?
   The Capitoline Museums have a lot to offer but some of the highlights include the Capitoline Shewolf the statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and the Hall of the Galatian.
4. How much does it cost to visit the Capitoline Museum in Rome?
   The admission fee for the Capitoline Museum is €11.
5. Is Palatine Hill Same as Capitoline Hill?
   No while they are located nearby Palatine Hill and Capitoline Hill are two different locations.
6. How much time do you need at Capitoline Museum?
   It depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend exploring the museums. A general rule of thumb is to plan for at least 2 hours.
7. Is Palatine Hill Rome Free?
   No Palatine Hill has an admission fee.
8. Do you need tickets for Capitoline Hill?
   Yes visitors to the Capitoline Museums need to purchase tickets for admission.
9. How to get tickets to Capitoline Museum?
   You can purchase tickets online or at the museum.
10. What does it cost to get in the Capitoline Hill?
    The admission fee for the Capitoline Museums is €11.
11. Why is Capitoline Museums important?
    The Capitoline Museums are important because they contain a wealth of art and archaeological treasures that provide insight into the history and culture of Rome. The museums are also home to some of the city’ s most famous and iconic pieces such as the Capitoline Shewolf and the statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
12. Is the Capitoline Museum busy?
    The Capitoline Museums can get busy during peak tourist season and on weekends so it’ s a good idea to plan your visit accordingly. To avoid crowds consider visiting on a weekday or during offpeak hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion the Capitoline Museums of Rome are a mustsee destination for anyone visiting the city. The museums offer an unparalleled glimpse into the art and history of Rome and are home to some of the city’ s most famous and iconic pieces. With a wealth of art and artifacts on display there is something for everyone to enjoy. Remember book your luxury apartment through our website and make the most of your trip to Rome!