The Galleria Borghese in Rome is one of the city’s most prestigious museums and an absolute must-visit for art lovers. Located in the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens, this famous museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and frescoes by world-renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael.
Whether you have a passion for art or just want to add a cultural experience to your city trip in Rome, a visit to the Galleria Borghese is definitely worthwhile. In this article you will discover all the practical information, such as opening hours, tickets and tips for your visit to the Galleria Borghese.
The history of Galleria Borghese in Rome
The Galleria Borghese is located in the park Villa Borghese. In 1605, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, Pope Paul V’s nephew, bought the land to build a park. A member of a wealthy family, he wanted to build a villa to display his impressive art collection, which he had amassed between 1576 and 1633. In the 17th century, the Borghese family further contributed to the expansion of the estate.
The monument that houses the museum was designed by Flaminio Ponzio, a renowned Italian architect.
In 1808, part of the collection was sold to Napoleon I, so some works from the Borghese collection can be admired today at the Louvre in Paris.
It was not until 1901 that the monument was opened as a museum. The Borghese family could no longer maintain the estate and sold it to the Italian state, which then opened it to the public.
What is there to see in the Galleria Borghese?
Among the most prestigious museums in the world, the Galleria Borghese houses an impressive collection of masterpieces. The museum is spread over two floors and has about 20 rooms, where paintings, sculptures, mosaics and frescoes are displayed.
On the first floor, admire a stunning collection of antique sculptures, mosaics and impressive frescoes adorning the walls. This part of the museum offers a unique experience, as you are literally surrounded by art from floor to ceiling.
On the top floor is the painting gallery with works by grand masters such as Titian, Raphael and Caravaggio. The refined details and masterful compositions make this collection one of the highlights of the museum.
Some absolute masterpieces not to be missed during your visit:
Below are some of the most famous and beautiful works that you absolutely should not miss during your visit to the Galleria Borghese:
1. The Rape of Proserpina – a breathtaking marble sculpture by Bernini 2. David – a dynamic and expressive sculpture, also by Bernini 3. Pauline Bonaparte as Venus Victrix – an elegant sculpture by Antonio Canova
How long a visit to the Galleria Borghese takes
Plan about 2 hours for your visit to the Galleria Borghese so you can admire all the works of art at your leisure.
Entrance tickets for Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is open by reservation only. To ensure an optimal experience, a maximum of 180 people may be in the room at the same time. Access is not possible without prior reservation. Since available spots fill up quickly, we advise you to book early!
A skip-the-line ticket gets you 2 hours of admission to the museum. More information on tickets and prices can be found at the link below.
Experience the Galleria Borghese with an exclusive tour
The Galleria Borghese is a wonderful place to explore on your own, but a guided tour will make your visit even more engaging. With so many masterpieces to admire, it’s extra valuable to learn more about their history and origins.
An experienced guide offers in-depth insight into the works of art and shares fascinating stories and anecdotes you might otherwise miss. While there are informative panels at some of the masterpieces, this is not the case for all of them.
A guided tour will make your visit more fun and memorable. We definitely recommend it!
1. Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 – 19:00 (last entry at 17:00) 2. Wednesday: 09:00 – 22:00 3. Thursday: 09:00 – 21:00 4. The museum is closed on December 25 and January 1.
Where is Galleria Borghese located in Rome?
The Galleria Borghese is located in the Villa Borghese at Piazzale Scipione Borghese.
How do I get to Galleria Borghese in Rome?
By subway: take line A and get off at Flaminio or Spagna stations. From there it is about a 20-minute walk.
By bus: the following lines stop at Pincia/Museo Borghese station: 52, 53, 63, 83, 92, 223, 360, 910.
Our opinion on visiting Galleria Borghese in Rome
A visit to the Galleria Borghese in Rome is well worthwhile, especially for art lovers. The collection is impressive, with works by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Rafael. What we found most special was the way Bernini’s sculptures almost come to life. The museum has a quiet atmosphere, allowing you to really enjoy the art. It is also located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, where you can relax after visiting the museum. All in all, it was one of the highlights of our city trip to Rome.
What is there to do near the Galleria Borghese?
1. Villa Borghese
The museum is located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, which covers more than 80 acres. Here you can engage in various activities and discover various sights. Start with a quiet walk and enjoy the green oasis in the middle of Rome. The park is rich in small buildings and sculptures that beautify the surroundings. In addition, you can visit the zoo or take a relaxing boat ride on the park’s artificial lake.
2. Spanish Square in Rome
The museum is a short distance from the Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome’s most iconic squares. Here you will find, among other things, the Church of the Trinity of the Mountains, with its famous staircase leading to the church. From the square you have a beautiful view of the Barcaccia Fountain. This square is an absolute must during your visit to Rome and is located on the Pincio Hill.
3. Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is a major hub of shopping streets in Rome, including Via del Corso. Here you can visit the famous Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, known for its beautifully decorated chapels. For a stunning view of the square, you can walk to the Passeggiata del Pincio. From there you will have a breathtaking panoramic view.
Special offers to visit Galleria Borghese in Rome
If you are going on a city trip to Rome and would like to visit the Galleria Borghese, take advantage of the offers below!
Is Galleria Borghese in Rome worth a Visit?
The Galleria Borghese in Rome is one of the city’s most prestigious museums and an absolute must-visit for art lovers. Located in the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens, this famous museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and frescoes by world-renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael.
Whether you have a passion for art or just want to add a cultural experience to your city trip in Rome, a visit to the Galleria Borghese is definitely worthwhile. In this article you will discover all the practical information, such as opening hours, tickets and tips for your visit to the Galleria Borghese.
The history of Galleria Borghese in Rome
The Galleria Borghese is located in the park Villa Borghese. In 1605, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, Pope Paul V’s nephew, bought the land to build a park. A member of a wealthy family, he wanted to build a villa to display his impressive art collection, which he had amassed between 1576 and 1633. In the 17th century, the Borghese family further contributed to the expansion of the estate.
The monument that houses the museum was designed by Flaminio Ponzio, a renowned Italian architect.
In 1808, part of the collection was sold to Napoleon I, so some works from the Borghese collection can be admired today at the Louvre in Paris.
It was not until 1901 that the monument was opened as a museum. The Borghese family could no longer maintain the estate and sold it to the Italian state, which then opened it to the public.
What is there to see in the Galleria Borghese?
Among the most prestigious museums in the world, the Galleria Borghese houses an impressive collection of masterpieces. The museum is spread over two floors and has about 20 rooms, where paintings, sculptures, mosaics and frescoes are displayed.
On the first floor, admire a stunning collection of antique sculptures, mosaics and impressive frescoes adorning the walls. This part of the museum offers a unique experience, as you are literally surrounded by art from floor to ceiling.
On the top floor is the painting gallery with works by grand masters such as Titian, Raphael and Caravaggio. The refined details and masterful compositions make this collection one of the highlights of the museum.
Some absolute masterpieces not to be missed during your visit:
Below are some of the most famous and beautiful works that you absolutely should not miss during your visit to the Galleria Borghese:
1. The Rape of Proserpina – a breathtaking marble sculpture by Bernini
2. David – a dynamic and expressive sculpture, also by Bernini
3. Pauline Bonaparte as Venus Victrix – an elegant sculpture by Antonio Canova
How long a visit to the Galleria Borghese takes
Plan about 2 hours for your visit to the Galleria Borghese so you can admire all the works of art at your leisure.
Entrance tickets for Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is open by reservation only. To ensure an optimal experience, a maximum of 180 people may be in the room at the same time. Access is not possible without prior reservation. Since available spots fill up quickly, we advise you to book early!
A skip-the-line ticket gets you 2 hours of admission to the museum. More information on tickets and prices can be found at the link below.
Experience the Galleria Borghese with an exclusive tour
The Galleria Borghese is a wonderful place to explore on your own, but a guided tour will make your visit even more engaging. With so many masterpieces to admire, it’s extra valuable to learn more about their history and origins.
An experienced guide offers in-depth insight into the works of art and shares fascinating stories and anecdotes you might otherwise miss. While there are informative panels at some of the masterpieces, this is not the case for all of them.
A guided tour will make your visit more fun and memorable. We definitely recommend it!
Opening Hours Galleria Borghese
The Galleria Borghese is open on:
1. Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 – 19:00 (last entry at 17:00)
2. Wednesday: 09:00 – 22:00
3. Thursday: 09:00 – 21:00
4. The museum is closed on December 25 and January 1.
Where is Galleria Borghese located in Rome?
The Galleria Borghese is located in the Villa Borghese at Piazzale Scipione Borghese.
How do I get to Galleria Borghese in Rome?
By subway: take line A and get off at Flaminio or Spagna stations. From there it is about a 20-minute walk.
By bus: the following lines stop at Pincia/Museo Borghese station: 52, 53, 63, 83, 92, 223, 360, 910.
Our opinion on visiting Galleria Borghese in Rome
A visit to the Galleria Borghese in Rome is well worthwhile, especially for art lovers. The collection is impressive, with works by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Rafael. What we found most special was the way Bernini’s sculptures almost come to life. The museum has a quiet atmosphere, allowing you to really enjoy the art. It is also located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, where you can relax after visiting the museum. All in all, it was one of the highlights of our city trip to Rome.
What is there to do near the Galleria Borghese?
1. Villa Borghese
The museum is located in the beautiful Villa Borghese park, which covers more than 80 acres. Here you can engage in various activities and discover various sights. Start with a quiet walk and enjoy the green oasis in the middle of Rome. The park is rich in small buildings and sculptures that beautify the surroundings. In addition, you can visit the zoo or take a relaxing boat ride on the park’s artificial lake.
2. Spanish Square in Rome
The museum is a short distance from the Piazza di Spagna, one of Rome’s most iconic squares. Here you will find, among other things, the Church of the Trinity of the Mountains, with its famous staircase leading to the church. From the square you have a beautiful view of the Barcaccia Fountain. This square is an absolute must during your visit to Rome and is located on the Pincio Hill.
3. Piazza del Popolo
Piazza del Popolo is a major hub of shopping streets in Rome, including Via del Corso. Here you can visit the famous Church of Santa Maria del Popolo, known for its beautifully decorated chapels. For a stunning view of the square, you can walk to the Passeggiata del Pincio. From there you will have a breathtaking panoramic view.
Special offers to visit Galleria Borghese in Rome
If you are going on a city trip to Rome and would like to visit the Galleria Borghese, take advantage of the offers below!
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