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.
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.
🚶♀️ 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.
🚶♀️ 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.
"Stunning building & wonderful collection.
I loved the combination of stunning architecture as well as stunning works. You are taken on a journey through history with a visit here.
There were no queues & there are descriptions of everything if you are wanting to learn about the pieces. There are also a good number of seats to be able to take it all in."
Jessica Sophia
"It's an interesting museum of Roman artwork. There's a very good collection of Caravaggio in one of the rooms. We were happy to see some pieces by Raphael. It's a good way to beat the heat and wasn't too crowded when we were there. There are benches to sit on to observe the artwork and rest your feet."
Nicole P
"This museum is set within a 17th-century palace complex and features a well-curated collection of paintings, showcasing various styles such as High Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque. The architectural design of the building itself is intriguing. The chance to see works by Caravaggio and his followers makes the visit worthwhile, along with pieces by Raphael, Hans Holbein the Younger, and El Greco. Although it isn't the oldest structure in Rome—where you can find artifacts and ruins over a thousand years old—it still serves as an important landmark.
It sporadically houses temporary events, a recent one being a group exhibition on the New American Realism, a much recent movement which blends social commentary and figure based representation based on mundane objects. Such a dynamic use of exhibition space adds to the relevance of this institution to the art scene."
O Okan
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.
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.
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. 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. Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the collection and the palace's history.
🏛️ 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. The palace's history is intertwined with the political and cultural landscape of Rome during the Baroque era. Look for details like the Barberini bees emblem, which appears throughout the palace, symbolizing the family's influence.
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. These events are a major draw for art enthusiasts worldwide, offering a rare opportunity to see multiple Caravaggio masterpieces gathered in one place. Planning ahead and securing tickets early is crucial for these popular exhibitions.
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
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. The opportunity to admire masterpieces without overwhelming crowds enhances the overall experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit