Palazzo Barberini & Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica Rome
Baroque palace housing the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica, featuring masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini's architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Palazzo Barberini & Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Baroque palace housing the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica, featuring masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini's architecture.
"Rome's most underrated museum, IMHO."
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for Caravaggio exhibits, book 30+ days ahead.
🚶♀️ Explore Galleria Corsini
Your ticket includes free entry to this nearby gem.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Borromini's Spiral Staircase
Palazzo Barberini
A breathtaking Baroque architectural marvel, this dynamic spiral staircase is a must-see.
Pietro da Cortona's Ceiling Fresco
Main Hall
Marvel at the 'Triumph of Divine Providence,' a vast and intricate Baroque ceiling painting.
Caravaggio Masterpieces
Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica
See iconic works by Caravaggio, including 'Judith Beheading Holofernes.'
Hall of Mirrors
Palazzo Barberini
Experience the dazzling 17th-century Baroque splendor of this ornate room.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Caravaggio Tickets Early
Combine with Galleria Corsini
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for Caravaggio exhibits, book 30+ days ahead. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Galleria Corsini
Your ticket includes free entry to this nearby gem.
🏛️ Check for Room Closures
Some rooms may be under maintenance; check ahead.
☕ Relax at Serre Barberini
Enjoy coffee in a charming 19th-century greenhouse.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for Caravaggio exhibits, book 30+ days ahead. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Galleria Corsini
Your ticket includes free entry to this nearby gem.
🏛️ Check for Room Closures
Some rooms may be under maintenance; check ahead.
☕ Relax at Serre Barberini
Enjoy coffee in a charming 19th-century greenhouse.
💡 Look for Hidden Details
Discover bees and intricate details throughout the palace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Palazzo Barberini for its stunning Baroque architecture, particularly Borromini's staircase, and its impressive collection of art, especially Caravaggio's works. Many consider it an underrated gem in Rome, offering a more intimate viewing experience. However, some visitors have noted that certain rooms may be closed for maintenance, impacting the completeness of the exhibition.
"Phenomenal art collection and two grand staircases including a brilliant spiral staircase in the home of a former member of the papal family whose insignia is the honey bee. Caravaggio masterpieces as well and other major artists work beautifully exhibited. Quiet museum that is not to be missed. Your ticket also gets you into the Corsini Gallery in Trastavere."
Susan Medyn
"Unfortunately, the experience was not entirely positive, because half of the rooms with paintings, at least on the day I was there, were closed. Including the main hall. Fortunately, I saw several paintings by Caravaggio (his painting "Narcissus" is very mesmerizing) which were incredibly beautiful, as well as paintings by other amazing artists, but the experience was still incomplete. Moreover, no one warned me, and the people at the information desk were not very polite. On top of that, some of the rooms were in a different location, and they should probably put up more signs, because many people asked me "where to go" along the way, and I had to ask the staff myself. Maybe it's obvious, but when you're in a hurry, you can get confused. I can't give fewer stars to a place where such high art is present, but unfortunately, the experience was mediocre. In any case, if you like art or are an artist, I highly recommend visiting this place, but make sure to check whether all the rooms with paintings are open.
p.s I bought tickets in advance, but I suppose it wasn't necessary, because there was no one in front of me in the queue at the ticket office in the Barberini Palace itself. The ticket also includes the Corsini Gallery."
dinaaa
"Endless rooms filled with the most beautiful art!
However, now it’s split between Carravagio pieces and everything else. We had a ticket for the main part of the house, but we didn’t expect it to be split so it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t see the rest."
Hunter Wegner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Barberini is centrally located. You can reach it by metro (Line A, Barberini station) or by various bus routes. Many visitors also walk from nearby attractions like the Trevi Fountain.
Yes, the Barberini metro station is just a short walk away, and several bus lines stop in Piazza Barberini, making it easily accessible via public transport.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from many central Rome landmarks, including the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
Approaching from Piazza Barberini offers a grand view of the palace. You can also explore the surrounding streets for different perspectives.
Street parking in Rome can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach Palazzo Barberini. There are paid parking garages nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on current exhibitions. Standard entry usually covers the permanent collection. Check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and exhibition details.
For special exhibitions, especially those featuring Caravaggio, booking tickets 30 days in advance is highly recommended as they sell out quickly. For the permanent collection, advance booking might not be strictly necessary but is advisable during peak times. +1
Yes, Palazzo Barberini offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month. Be prepared for larger crowds on these days.
A standard ticket typically includes access to the Palazzo Barberini's permanent collection and often grants free entry to the nearby Galleria Corsini.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Generally, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, with closing times in the late afternoon.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Caravaggio's 'Judith Beheading Holofernes,' Pietro da Cortona's ceiling fresco in the main hall, and the stunning spiral staircase by Borromini.
Absolutely! It houses the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica with masterpieces by Italian and European masters like Raphael, Tintoretto, El Greco, and Caravaggio. +1
The Sala degli Specchi, or Hall of Mirrors, is a dazzling 17th-century Baroque room known for its ornate decoration and reflective surfaces, offering a glimpse into opulent history.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff.
Yes, guided tours are often available and can greatly enhance your understanding of the art and history. Some visitors highly recommend them.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a charming café located in the historic 19th-century greenhouse within the palace gardens, offering a unique spot for refreshments.
The café within the palace gardens, Serre Barberini, is a lovely option. Alternatively, Piazza Barberini and the surrounding streets have numerous cafes and restaurants.
While the palace has a café for lighter fare, for full meals, you'll find many restaurants in the vicinity of Piazza Barberini offering various Italian cuisines.
The café typically offers coffee, pastries, and light snacks. It's a pleasant place to take a break and enjoy the garden setting.
Some establishments in Piazza Barberini offer terraces with views, making them great spots for an aperitivo or a meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The Borromini staircase, the Hall of Mirrors, and the ceiling frescoes are highly photogenic. The palace's exterior and gardens also offer great photo opportunities.
Generally, flash photography is not permitted to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signage or ask staff for clarification.
Non-flash photography for personal use is usually allowed for most artworks, including Caravaggio's pieces, but it's best to confirm on-site.
Besides flash restrictions, some temporary exhibitions might have specific photography rules. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid tripods or professional equipment without permission.
Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior and gardens. Inside, the lighting is generally good, but avoiding peak crowd times will allow for better shots of the artworks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for interactive elements or stories about the artists and their lives that might appeal to kids. The palace's grandeur itself can be impressive. For a break, the Serre Barberini café in the gardens offers a pleasant spot for snacks and a change of scenery.
Remember that some rooms might be under maintenance, so check ahead if specific artworks are a priority. 🎨 Art Enthusiasts
The architectural elements, particularly Borromini's spiral staircase and the Hall of Mirrors, are as much works of art as the paintings themselves.
+1 Many visitors consider the Palazzo Barberini one of Rome's most underrated museums, offering a more intimate and less crowded experience than some of the city's more famous galleries. 🏛️ History Buffs
The collection within the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica provides historical context through its diverse range of artworks, spanning from the medieval period to the 18th century.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Caravaggio at Palazzo Barberini
Special exhibitions focusing on Caravaggio have been held at Palazzo Barberini, drawing significant attention and often selling out well in advance.
Beyond the famous works, the Palazzo Barberini's collection spans various periods and artists, providing a rich context for Caravaggio's revolutionary style. Exploring the entire gallery allows for a deeper appreciation of the artistic landscape of the time.
Architectural Wonders: Borromini and Bernini
Bernini also left his mark on the palace, contributing to its overall design and the surrounding area. The nearby church of Sant'Andrea al Quirinale, designed by Bernini, is often mentioned in conjunction with Palazzo Barberini, highlighting the concentration of Baroque masterpieces in the vicinity.
Exploring these architectural marvels offers a deep dive into the artistic rivalries and innovations of 17th-century Rome. The palace itself, commissioned by Pope Urban VIII, showcases the opulence and power of the Barberini family. The intricate details, grand halls, and the famous ceiling fresco by Pietro da Cortona all contribute to an immersive experience of Baroque art and architecture.
Beyond the Masterpieces: Hidden Gems and Ambiance
It provides a moment of pure visual delight and a glimpse into the lavish interiors of the past. For a unique respite, the Serre Barberini offers a charming 19th-century greenhouse within the palace gardens, providing a tranquil spot for coffee or a light snack amidst greenery.
This hidden oasis allows visitors to escape the bustle and enjoy a moment of peace. Many visitors find Palazzo Barberini to be Rome's most underrated museum, appreciating its less crowded atmosphere compared to other major attractions and the sheer quality of its collections.
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