National Gallery of Ancient Art
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About
This gallery is split between two magnificent locations: Palazzo Barberini and Palazzo Corsini. It houses some of the most critical works of the Italian Renaissance and Baroque, including Caravaggio's 'Judith Beheading Holofernes' and Lippi's 'Annunciation.' The galleries are less crowded than the Vatican, allowing for a quiet, contemplative experience with high art. Expert recommendation: at Palazzo Barberini, look for the 'Allegory of Divine Providence' ceiling fresco. Pro tip: your ticket is valid for both palaces (Barberini and Corsini) for a 20-day period. This is an excellent way to see world-class art while exploring two very different Roman neighborhoods (the Quirinal area and Trastevere).
Highlights
- Raphael's La Fornarina
- Bernini and Borromini palace
- Caravaggio's Judith and Holofernes
- Baroque architectural gem
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Palazzo Barberini
This grand Baroque palace, a collaboration between rival architects Bernini and Borromini, houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art. Its most famous treasure is Raphael’s 'La Fornarina,' alongside works by Caravaggio and Holbein. The centerpiece is the massive ceiling fresco by Pietro da Cortona, 'The Allegory of Divine Providence.' The sensory experience is one of dizzying Baroque movement and golden light. Expert recommendation: compare the two staircases—Bernini's square one and Borromini's helicoidal (spiral) one. Pro tip: the palace gardens are free to enter and provide a quiet oasis in the busy Barberini district. Your ticket is often valid for the Galleria Corsini in Trastevere as well.
Quirinal Palace
Perched on the highest of the Seven Hills, this palace has been the residence of Popes, Kings, and now the President of the Italian Republic. The Piazza del Quirinale features the massive Dioscuri fountain and offers a great view toward St. Peter's. The interior is a museum of Italian history, with tapestries, clocks, and frescoes. Expert recommendation: watch the changing of the guard ceremony (Corazzieri) every day at 3:00 PM (4:00 PM in summer). Pro tip: the palace is open to the public only on certain days and requires booking at least 5 days in advance through the official presidency website. It is one of the most secure and well-maintained sites in Italy.
Trevi Fountain
The world's most famous fountain—a magnificent Baroque confection of Neptune in his ocean chariot with rearing horses emerging from the ocean façade of the Palazzo Poli—was completed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi after consuming 30 years of his career, and the tradition of throwing a coin over the left shoulder with the right hand to ensure a return to Rome generates an estimated €1 million annually that is collected nightly and donated to food banks. The fountain is most magical at dawn when photographers and early risers have it largely to themselves before the daytime crowds make intimate viewing impossible, and most spectacular at night when powerful illumination turns the white travertine into a luminous golden spectacle visible from far down the surrounding narrow streets. The Baroque piazza surrounding the fountain is best explored by discovering the surrounding network of ancient streets, gelaterias, and small churches.
Spanish Steps
Connecting the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church, these 135 steps were built in 1723 to celebrate the peace between France and Spain. The area became a cultural hub for the Romantic poets, including Keats and Shelley. The atmosphere is one of refined elegance, especially in spring when the steps are draped in blooming pink azaleas. At the base lies Bernini’s 'Barcaccia' fountain. Experts recommend climbing to the top for a stunning sunset view over the rooftops of Via dei Condotti. Pro tip: sitting on the steps is now strictly prohibited by law and monitored by police; keep moving to avoid fines while enjoying the high-fashion window shopping nearby.
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