National Gallery of Ancient Art: A Cultural Gem in Rome

Overview

The National Gallery of Ancient Art, located in the heart of Rome, is a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Housed in the magnificent Barberini Palace, this museum showcases an impressive collection of artwork from the 13th to the 18th century, featuring renowned Italian masters such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo. The museum's architectural beauty is complemented by the stunning fresco, 'The Triumph of Divine Providence,' created by Pietro da Cortona, which adorns the Gran Salone designed by the legendary architect Bernini. Visitors can also marvel at the rococo apartments once occupied by Cornelia Costanza Barberini and her husband, complete with exquisite furnishings and captivating frescoes. Whether you are there for the art or the history, the National Gallery of Ancient Art offers an enriching experience that captures the essence of cultural heritage.

Photo of National Gallery of Ancient Art
Photo of National Gallery of Ancient Art
Photo of National Gallery of Ancient Art
Photo of National Gallery of Ancient Art
Photo of National Gallery of Ancient Art
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:00 - 19:00
  • Monday 10:00 - 19:00
  • Tuesday 10:00 - 19:00
  • Wednesday 10:00 - 19:00
  • Thursday 10:00 - 19:00
  • Friday 10:00 - 19:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressVia delle Quattro Fontane, 13, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
  • Phone+39 06 482 4184

Reviews

Victor Rossi
Italy
5
I sought refuge from an unexpected drizzle in Rome and was pleasantly surprised by my visit. It took around two hours to explore all the exhibits, including a lovely garden located deeper in the gallery yard. Surprisingly, the rooms were nearly empty during the last few hours of operation. Each entrance to a room with magnificent ceilings left me in awe. Caravaggio never disappoints, and you can wander through counting the representations of Judith and Holofernes' heads by various artists. One particular room stood out for its amazing atmosphere; it felt both grand and cozily intimate, even with other visitors nearby. What a marvel!
Giorgia
Italy
5
The Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica at Palazzo Barberini is a must-see for art enthusiasts. The collection is remarkable, featuring masterpieces by famous artists like Artemisia Gentileschi, Raphael, and Caravaggio. The palace is breathtaking, with its beautifully adorned ceilings and grand architecture. Unlike other major museums in Rome, it’s pleasantly uncrowded, allowing for a deeper connection to the art. The staff is welcoming, and the serene ambiance is perfect for appreciating Renaissance and Baroque art. Highly recommended for anyone who loves history, culture, and tranquility in the city.
Giovanni Bianchi
Italy
5
Palazzo Barberini boasts a beautifully curated collection of Renaissance art, ideal for art lovers in search of a quiet experience. The gallery is the perfect size — not overwhelming or crowded — allowing visitors to truly appreciate masterpieces in a serene environment. A must-see for anyone who values thoughtful engagement with art.
Laura Martini
Italy
4
The museum displays an array of fascinating artworks. The architecture is intricate and beautiful, adorned with statuary. The main area featuring the painted ceiling is absolutely stunning!
Marco Neri
Italy
5
This museum is housed within a 17th-century palace and features a well-curated collection of paintings showcasing diverse styles like High Renaissance, Mannerism, and Baroque. The architectural design of the building itself is captivating. The opportunity to see works by Caravaggio and his followers makes the visit valuable, along with pieces by Raphael, Hans Holbein the Younger, and El Greco. Although it may not be the oldest structure in Rome—where remnants of artifacts and ruins exist for over a thousand years—it remains an essential landmark. It occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions; a recent one highlighted the New American Realism, a contemporary movement merging social commentary with representations of everyday objects. Such dynamic use of exhibition space enhances the significance of this institution within the art scene.