Museo Nazionale Romano – Palazzo Massimo Rome
A Neo-Renaissance palace housing Rome's finest collection of classical art, from breathtaking sculptures to vibrant ancient frescoes and mosaics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Museo Nazionale Romano – Palazzo Massimo Rome
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Neo-Renaissance palace housing Rome's finest collection of classical art, from breathtaking sculptures to vibrant ancient frescoes and mosaics.
"An awesome museum, highly recommended, more than just sculptures, it has authentic frescoes and mosaics. "
Allocate 3-4 Hours
Give yourself ample time to explore the extensive collections. :clock1:
Check for Combo Tickets
Inquire about Roma Pass or combo tickets for potential savings across multiple museums. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boxer at Rest
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
A powerful bronze sculpture of a weary boxer, showcasing incredible detail and emotion. A must-see masterpiece.
Hellenistic Prince
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
An exquisite Hellenistic bronze statue, renowned for its lifelike depiction and artistic mastery.
Ancient Frescoes and Mosaics
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
Immerse yourself in stunningly preserved Roman frescoes and intricate mosaics, offering a glimpse into ancient domestic life.
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Sufficient Time
Understand the Museum Network
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate 3-4 Hours
Give yourself ample time to explore the extensive collections. :clock1:
Check for Combo Tickets
Inquire about Roma Pass or combo tickets for potential savings across multiple museums. :ticket:
Don't Miss the Frescoes
Beyond sculptures, discover authentic ancient frescoes and mosaics. :art:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate 3-4 Hours
Give yourself ample time to explore the extensive collections. :clock1:
Check for Combo Tickets
Inquire about Roma Pass or combo tickets for potential savings across multiple museums. :ticket:
Don't Miss the Frescoes
Beyond sculptures, discover authentic ancient frescoes and mosaics. :art:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see everything. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is widely praised for its exceptional collection of classical Roman art, particularly its stunning sculptures and remarkably preserved frescoes and mosaics. Visitors often highlight the 'Boxer at Rest' and the 'Hellenistic Prince' as unforgettable highlights. While the museum is vast and requires significant time, its quality and historical significance make it a highly recommended experience for art and history lovers.
"This is an archeological museum with 4 floors of displays but one display floor was closed in the lower basement level. Regardless, the antiquities are a fine way to bring to life all the brown/gray ruins around Rome left partially intact or in a near rubble pile state. Apply the color of every day Roman living quarters to those sites you have seen and just imagine what they once actually looked like with frescoes on walls of dinning, living, and bedrooms rooms. The intricate mosaics decorating walls and floors with scenes of everything they cherished in their life time. The sculptures and busts of heroes and legends adorning their homes, gardens and bathhouses. Now one begins to learn of the Romans way of life. Allow 3 hours to casually explore this ancient world treasure."
T. Cheney
"The National Roman Museum is one of my favorite places in Rome, and I always love coming back. This museum has a unique atmosphere and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of ancient Rome.
Every visit is an unforgettable experience for me – from the beautifully preserved mosaics and frescoes to the majestic statues that seem to tell stories from centuries past. I am especially captivated by the collection of classical sculptures, particularly the iconic statue of Emperor Augustus and the incredibly detailed bronze busts.
The museum is spread across multiple buildings, so there’s always something new to discover. Palazzo Massimo is my personal favorite – its frescoes and mosaics transport me to the lavish villas of ancient Romans. Plus, it’s never too crowded, allowing me to fully appreciate the exhibits in peace.
If you love history and art, I highly recommend visiting. For me, it’s a place where I feel connected to the past and where I always find a moment to reflect and admire the beauty of Roman civilization."
Johny Wanderlust
"Beautiful collection in an elegant palace. All the pieces are well described and put into a context. Price of the ticket (15€; 2€ if EU resident below 25 years) is fair, especially considering that it gives access to Diocleziano's Thermae (just in front of Palazzo Massimo) and Palazzo Altemps exposition (near Piazza Navona)."
Rod
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is conveniently located near Termini Station. You can easily reach it by metro (Line A or B to Termini), bus, or tram. Many visitors find it a straightforward journey from other parts of the city.
Yes, its proximity to Termini Station makes it highly accessible via Rome's extensive public transport network, including metro, buses, and trams.
From the Colosseum area, you can take the Metro Line B from the Colosseo station to Termini Station, which is a short walk from Palazzo Massimo. Alternatively, several bus routes connect the two areas.
While it's a pleasant walk, it's about 20-25 minutes. You might consider a short bus ride or enjoying the walk through the city streets if time permits.
Street parking in Rome can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach Palazzo Massimo alle Terme.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website for the most current information. Combo tickets for multiple National Roman Museum sites might be available.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time waiting in line. Check the official museum website for booking options.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's best to consult the official National Roman Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times.
The Roma Pass often includes entry to certain museums and discounts on others. It's worth checking if Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is covered or discounted under the pass.
Rome often has free museum days, typically on the first Sunday of the month. However, these days can be very crowded, so weigh the benefits against potential crowds.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3 to 4 hours to thoroughly explore the museum's extensive collections of sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes.
Don't miss the 'Boxer at Rest,' the 'Hellenistic Prince,' and the remarkably preserved ancient Roman frescoes and mosaics, which offer incredible insights into daily life. +1
While the museum is rich in art and history, younger children might find the extensive collections less engaging. However, older children interested in history and art can certainly appreciate it.
Information on audio guides or guided tours should be checked on the official museum website. They can greatly enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
Generally, photography without flash is permitted for personal use in most areas. However, it's always best to look for specific signage or ask museum staff for clarification.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, major museums like Palazzo Massimo do not have extensive dining facilities. There might be a small cafe or vending machines, but it's advisable to plan for meals before or after your visit.
The area around Termini Station offers a wide range of dining options, from quick trattorias to more formal restaurants, catering to various budgets and tastes.
Most museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into the exhibition areas. It's best to consume them outside the museum premises.
Yes, Rome has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. You'll find plenty of options in the vicinity of Termini Station.
Given the museum's extensive collections, many visitors prefer to eat before or after their visit to maximize their time exploring the exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate details of the 'Boxer at Rest,' the serene 'Hellenistic Prince,' and the vibrant ancient Roman frescoes and mosaics. The architecture of the palace itself is also photogenic.
No, flash photography is generally prohibited inside museums to protect the delicate artworks, especially ancient frescoes and mosaics. Always check for signage.
Natural light can be best, but the museum's lighting is designed to showcase the art. Weekday mornings might offer fewer people in your shots.
The Hall of Mosaics and the rooms displaying the ancient frescoes are incredibly visually appealing and make for stunning photographs.
Yes, the Neo-Renaissance architecture of Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is quite grand and makes for excellent exterior shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for younger family members, plan for shorter durations within the museum, perhaps focusing on one or two key sections. Bringing along a sketchbook for them to draw their favorite pieces or playing a simple 'I Spy' game with the exhibits can add an interactive element. Remember to check for any family-friendly guides or activities the museum might offer.
Art History Enthusiasts
Take your time to study the intricate details of the mosaics and the expressive qualities of the sculptures. Consider researching specific periods or artists beforehand to enhance your appreciation. The museum's layout and the quality of its displays make it an ideal destination for in-depth study and contemplation of classical art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Masterpieces of Classical Art
Beyond these iconic sculptures, the museum offers an unparalleled collection of ancient Roman frescoes and mosaics. These vibrant pieces, often salvaged from Roman villas, provide a vivid glimpse into the domestic lives, beliefs, and artistic tastes of the era. The intricate details and rich colors of these artworks are remarkably preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the artistry of Roman interiors. Exploring these rooms is like walking through a preserved ancient home.
Visitors often remark on the sheer quality and quantity of the artifacts. The museum also features extensive collections of Roman coins, jewelry, and sarcophagi, each telling a story of Roman society, economy, and funerary practices. It’s a comprehensive journey through Roman history, presented in a beautifully restored palace setting.
Navigating the National Roman Museum Network
Other key sites within the network include the Baths of Diocletian, which showcases architectural remains and archaeological finds from the vast imperial baths; Palazzo Altemps, dedicated to ancient sculpture and decorative arts; and the Crypta Balbi, an archaeological museum focusing on the urban transformation of Rome.
Many travelers find that dedicating a full day or at least a significant portion of a day to explore Palazzo Massimo is necessary to truly appreciate its vast collections. Planning your visit to this specific site, or incorporating it into a broader exploration of the National Roman Museum network, will ensure you make the most of your Roman cultural experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit