Capitoline Museums travel guide

The Capitoline Museums, considered to be the world's first public museum, have a rich and illustrious history. In 1471, Pope Sixtus IV donated a group of bronze statues to the people of Rome, marking the start of the Museums.

The complex now comprises the Palazzo dei Conservatori, Palazzo Senatorio, and Palazzo Nuovo, all surrounding the beautiful Piazza del Campidoglio, a square designed by Michelangelo. Over the centuries, the collection has grown significantly and now includes a wide range of artefacts, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance art pieces.

The Museums were opened to the public in 1734 by Pope Clement XII, establishing the tradition of sharing cultural heritage with the wider community. Today, the Capitoline Museums continue to enchant visitors with their vast collections and the fascinating history they represent.

The Capitoline Museums are distinguished by their unique mix of artworks, archaeological finds, and historical documents, housed within three magnificent buildings - Palazzo dei Conservatori, Palazzo Nuovo, and Palazzo Senatorio. The central equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, an iconic symbol of the museums, is a bronze masterpiece not to be missed. The museum's vast collection includes the famous Lupa Capitolina, an ancient statue of the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome.

At the Capitoline Picture Gallery, visitors can marvel at paintings by Caravaggio, Rubens, and Titian. The Capitoline Museums also boast an extraordinary collection of ancient Roman statues, including the Capitoline Venus, one of the best preserved Roman copies of the Greek original. The museums' architectural beauty is further enhanced by the Capitoline Hill's panoramic views over the Roman Forum. Lastly, the museums offer a digital experience with multimedia displays and touchscreen panels, enabling a deeper understanding of the displayed artefacts.

Discover Capitoline Museums, a prime feature of Rome, in the vibrant Rome. Capitoline Museums is situated at Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, just a short distance from Campidoglio and Altar of the Fatherland, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Capitoline Museums, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Rome, a city in Italy rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Rome to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Capitoline Museums. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Rome travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Capitoline Museums is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rome, Italy. If you're flying in, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport is approximately 14.1 miles (22.7 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Capitoline Museums by taxi or shuttle.

Its exact address is Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Capitoline Museums!

The best time to explore Capitoline Museums in Rome, Italy, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons provide comfortable weather conditions, ideal for long museum visits and exploring the outdoor areas. These periods also typically see fewer tourists, allowing a more leisurely exploration of the museums' extensive collections. The museum hosts various special events throughout the year related to Roman history and culture that further enhance your experience. Additionally, visiting on the last Sunday of the month offers free entry, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers. However, it's advisable to arrive early on these days to beat the crowds. If you plan to visit in summer (July and August), the museums are air-conditioned providing a cool retreat from the outdoor heat. In conclusion, the best time to explore Capitoline Museums is tied to your personal preferences in terms of weather, crowd levels, and specific events.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Rome, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Capitoline Museums.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in Italy.

Upon arriving at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Rome.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Rome.

Choosing the right accommodation near Capitoline Museums from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Rome can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Capitoline Museums, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Capitoline Museums, Rome boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to establishment, the top attractions in Rome offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Rome is Trevi Fountain, located at Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Colosseum is worth seeing when you're in Rome. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Pantheon completes any trip to Rome. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Rome below to discover even more incredible places to explore.