Capitoline Museums
Lazio
The Capitoline Museums, located on Rome's historic Capitoline Hill, are among the world's oldest public museums dedicated primarily to ancient Roman art and archaeology. The main buildings, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo, face each other across the Michelangelo-designed Piazza del Campidoglio. The museums' collections include renowned sculptures such as the Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, the Capitoline Wolf, and the Dying Gaul, alongside inscriptions, coins, and artifacts illustrating Rome's civic and religious life. Renaissance and Baroque paintings enrich the collection, complemented by the frescoed Conservators' Apartment walls depicting early Roman history. The museums trace their origin to 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated ancient bronzes to the Roman people, symbolizing the continuity between imperial Rome and papal authority. Opened to the public in 1734 by Pope Clement XII, the museums have since grown to include temporary exhibitions and remain a cultural landmark attracting visitors worldwide.
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Tip: Visit the Capitoline Museums during weekdays or outside peak tourist seasons to enjoy a more tranquil experience. Consider purchasing the MIC card for cost-effective access to the city's civic museums and discounts on special exhibitions. Booking tickets or guided tours in advance is recommended, especially for popular exhibitions or during weekends and holidays. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events. Accessibility is well supported, making it suitable for most visitors.
Interesting facts
- •The Capitoline Wolf statue, symbolizing Rome, was originally placed on the Palazzo dei Conservatori facade by Pope Sixtus IV.
- •The museums occupy two palaces facing each other across a piazza designed by Michelangelo in 1536.
- •The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius is one of the few bronze statues from antiquity to survive.
- •The museums were officially opened to the public in 1734, making them among the earliest public museums worldwide.
- •The frescoed Conservators' Apartment walls depict scenes from Rome's early history, blending art and storytelling.
History
The Capitoline Museums originated in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of ancient bronzes, including the Capitoline Wolf, to the Roman people, marking one of the earliest restitutions of cultural heritage.
The collection was housed on Capitoline Hill, symbolizing Rome's historical memory and papal power.
Over the 16th century, the collection expanded with sculptures and reliefs, including monumental river god statues and panels from Marcus Aurelius's triumphal monument.
In 1734, Pope Clement XII officially opened the museums to the public, establishing them as one of the world's first public museums.
Subsequent centuries saw continued enrichment and development, cementing the museums' role as guardians of Roman artistic and civic heritage.
Place Guide
Palazzo dei Conservatori16th century
One of the main museum buildings housing significant ancient sculptures, Renaissance paintings, and the richly frescoed Conservators' Apartment depicting early Roman history.
Palazzo Nuovo17th century
The second principal building of the museums, featuring an extensive collection of Roman sculptures and archaeological artifacts arranged thematically and by excavation area.
Piazza del Campidoglio1536
The historic square designed by Michelangelo in 1536, serving as the architectural and symbolic heart of the Capitoline Museums complex.
Contact
Phone: 06 0608
