Galleria Borghese

Scipione Borghese, nephew of Pope Paul V, was obsessed with collecting the finest works of his time. He was the first major patron of the young Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and we owe him the sculptor's most significant early works. The cardinal's methods were sometimes questionable – he even imprisoned artists to acquire their works – but his taste was undeniably impeccable.

The villa's interiors were renovated in the late 18th century in a neoclassical style, with rich frescoes adorning the walls and ancient Roman mosaics on the floors, further enhancing the beauty of the sculptures and paintings.

The gallery's two floors showcase some of the most important milestones in art history:

• Bernini's masterpieces: Apollo and Daphne and The Rape of Proserpina are technical marvels where marble seems to transform into flesh and softness before our eyes.

• Caravaggio's room: Home to one of the world's largest Caravaggio collections, including Sick Bacchus and David with the Head of Goliath.

• Canova: Paolina Bonaparte: The famous statue of Napoleon's sister, depicted as a triumphant Venus reclining on a marble couch.

• Raphael and Titian: Iconic paintings such as The Deposition and Sacred and Profane Love.

The Galleria Borghese sets a global example in sustainable museum management:

• Strict visitor quotas: Entry to the gallery is limited to pre-booked, two-hour time slots every two years. This system prevents overcrowding, protects the physical condition of the artworks, and ensures an undisturbed experience for visitors.

• Green surroundings: The villa is located in Rome's largest public park. We recommend combining your visit with a stroll through the Villa Borghese gardens, using rental bikes or electric carts for eco-friendly transport within the park.

• Air filtration and conservation: The museum's state-of-the-art climate control systems minimise energy use while maintaining constant humidity levels to protect delicate panel paintings.

• Transport: Avoid taxis! Bus stops at the edge of the park and walking routes from Piazza del Popolo offer much more environmentally friendly and scenic access options.

Note: Tickets often need to be booked weeks (or months) in advance, as it is almost impossible to purchase entry on-site.

• Official ticket purchase: galleriaborghese.beniculturali.it

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