Capitoline Wolf
Iconic symbol of Rome's mythical founding, the Capitoline Wolf depicts a she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Easily spotted outdoors
Capitoline Wolf
Best Time
Easily spotted outdoors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic symbol of Rome's mythical founding, the Capitoline Wolf depicts a she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus.
"It's a beautiful statue that tells the ancient myth of how Rome was created."
🎯 Look Carefully!
The statue can be inconspicuous. Keep an eye out for it atop a column; it's smaller than many expect.
📜 Understand the Myth
Knowing the legend of Romulus and Remus enhances your appreciation of this iconic Roman symbol.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Capitoline Wolf Sculpture
Capitoline Hill area
Symbol of Rome's founding myth, this she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus is a must-see for history buffs.
Romulus and Remus
Base of the Capitoline Wolf sculpture
The legendary twins, suckled by the she-wolf, represent the very origins of the Eternal City.
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Planning Your Visit
Location & Accessibility
Understanding the Legend
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Look Carefully!
The statue can be inconspicuous. Keep an eye out for it atop a column; it's smaller than many expect. +1
📜 Understand the Myth
Knowing the legend of Romulus and Remus enhances your appreciation of this iconic Roman symbol.
📸 Photo Opportunity
While not grand, it's a significant photo op. Visit early to avoid crowds for the best shots.
📍 Proximity to Forum
It's conveniently located near the Roman Forum, making it easy to combine with other historical sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Look Carefully!
The statue can be inconspicuous. Keep an eye out for it atop a column; it's smaller than many expect. +1
📜 Understand the Myth
Knowing the legend of Romulus and Remus enhances your appreciation of this iconic Roman symbol.
📸 Photo Opportunity
While not grand, it's a significant photo op. Visit early to avoid crowds for the best shots.
📍 Proximity to Forum
It's conveniently located near the Roman Forum, making it easy to combine with other historical sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Capitoline Wolf a significant symbol of Rome's founding myth, appreciating its historical importance. However, many are surprised by its smaller size and less prominent outdoor placement compared to expectations. Despite this, its proximity to other major sites makes it a worthwhile, albeit brief, stop.
"The sculpture was excavated on the Palatine Hill in the early Middle Ages and has stood on the Lateran since the early 10th century. In 1471 Pope Sixtus IV gave it to Rome and it was then moved to the Palazzo dei Conservatori on the Capitoline Hill."
Tobiasz R
"I was surprised to see the size of the statue. I thought it would be bigger. It is still beautiful and tells the ancient myth of how Rome was created. It is free and sits out of the museum so you can see it while exploring the area. Read about the story of the she wolf saving Romulus and Remus."
Joni Gritzner
"If it weren't for this she-wolf, perhaps Rome itself wouldn't exist. However, you will definitely find an inconspicuous statue on a pedestal, just look carefully."
Peter Seno
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Capitoline Wolf statue is typically found outdoors, often atop a column, in the vicinity of the Capitoline Hill in Rome. It's a significant landmark but can be easily missed if you're not actively looking for it. +1
You can reach the Capitoline Hill by public transport, with buses stopping nearby. Walking is also a great option, offering scenic views of Rome as you ascend.
While it's a famous symbol, some visitors find the statue to be smaller and less prominently displayed than anticipated. It's important to look carefully for it, often on a pedestal or column. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Capitoline Wolf statue is an outdoor replica and is generally accessible without an entrance fee, allowing you to view it freely as part of exploring the area.
While the original bronze statue is housed in the Capitoline Museums, outdoor replicas or representations are often found in public spaces. The outdoor viewing is free.
As an outdoor monument, the Capitoline Wolf can be viewed at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and photography.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors are surprised by the size of the statue, noting it is smaller than they imagined, especially when compared to other ancient Roman ruins. +1
The Capitoline Wolf is a powerful symbol of Rome, representing the legend of the she-wolf who nursed and raised Romulus and Remus, the city's mythical founders.
Yes, photography is permitted. Visiting during less crowded times, like early morning, can help you get unobstructed photos.
The statue is often located near significant historical sites such as the Roman Forum and the Capitoline Museums, making it easy to incorporate into a broader sightseeing itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting and fewer crowds for photography. Golden hour can create a beautiful atmosphere.
Experiment with different angles, including looking up at the statue on its pedestal or column, to capture its symbolic presence.
Depending on its exact placement, you can usually get quite close to the outdoor replicas for photos. Be mindful of any barriers or designated viewing areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Since the statue is often outdoors and free to view, it's an easy stop for families. You can explain the legend of Romulus and Remus and let them imagine the origins of Rome. It's a great, quick educational moment that doesn't require a long museum visit, making it perfect for shorter attention spans.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
+2While many visitors note the statue's size, its historical and symbolic weight is undeniable. Consider visiting the Capitoline Museums to see the original bronze sculpture and delve deeper into the art and archaeology of ancient Rome.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Romulus and Remus
+2The she-wolf sculpture itself is a powerful representation of this myth. The depiction of the wolf with the two infants at her teats is an enduring image that symbolizes Rome's origins, resilience, and maternal protection. It's a story that has been passed down through centuries, shaping the cultural and artistic landscape of the city.
While the exact origins of the bronze wolf sculpture are debated, with some dating it to antiquity and others to the medieval period, the addition of the twins is generally attributed to the Renaissance. Regardless of its precise age, its symbolic power remains immense, making it a crucial piece of Roman heritage.
+1The Capitoline Museums and the Original Statue
+1Among its most prized possessions is the original bronze Capitoline Wolf. This ancient sculpture, excavated from the Palatine Hill, has a long history, residing in various locations before finding its permanent home in the museums. Seeing the original offers a profound connection to Rome's ancient past.
+1While outdoor replicas serve as accessible symbols, visiting the Capitoline Museums provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Capitoline Wolf sculpture and its context within the broader history of Roman art and civilization.
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