visit BARBERINI PALACE
In the heart of Rome, between the charm of Via delle Quattro Fontane and the elegance of Trastevere, are two artistic jewels that hold some of the most extraordinary masterpieces of Italian and European painting: Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Corsini. These two museums are part of the National Galleries of Ancient Art and offer an unmissable journey through centuries of history, beauty and artistic innovation.
Palazzo Barberini, located at 13 Via delle Quattro Fontane, is one of the most spectacular Baroque residences in Rome. Built in the 17th century at the behest of the powerful Barberini family, the palace is an architectural masterpiece, the work of three great masters-Carlo Maderno, Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini. Inside is one of Italy’s most prestigious art collections, with paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, Piero di Cosimo, El Greco, Guido Reni and many others. Among the most famous works are Caravaggio’s “Judith and Holofernes,” Raphael’s “La Fornarina,” and Pietro da Cortona’s monumental fresco of the “Triumph of Divine Providence,” which decorates the ceiling of the main hall.
On the other side of the Tiber, at 10 Via della Lungara, stands the striking Corsini Gallery, the only example of an 18th-century Roman art collection still intact. Housed in the Palazzo Corsini, this gallery collects paintings by Beato Angelico, Rubens, Murillo, Van Dyck and Caravaggio, immersed in a more intimate and charming atmosphere than the great Renaissance galleries.
An unmissable event: the exhibition “Caravaggio 2025”
On the occasion of the Jubilee 2025, Palazzo Barberini will host an exceptional exhibition dedicated to Caravaggio, featuring 24 autograph works by the Lombard master, some of which are rarely shown to the public. Among the masterpieces on display are the “Portrait of Maffeo Barberini,” the “Ecce Homo” from the Prado Museum and the “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This exhibition is a unique opportunity to admire up close the stylistic evolution and expressive intensity of one of the most revolutionary artists in history.
Visiting Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Corsini means immersing yourself in the great Italian artistic tradition, discovering timeless works and living an unforgettable experience in the heart of Rome. An appointment not to be missed for lovers of art and history.
Do you want to purchase tickets for the city name's main attraction?
Purchasing the ticket online for Palazzo Barberini is the best choice to avoid long queues and plan your visit optimally. Follow these simple steps to get your entry in just a few minutes! Choose the ticket type that suits you best:
- Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Corsini Entrance Ticket – Perfect for those who want to explore the collections of the National Gallery of Ancient Art independently without visiting the Caravaggio Exhibition. At a cost of €15.00 BOOK NOW
- Palazzo Barberini Entrance Ticket + Entrance to the Caravaggio Exhibition – Ideal for those who wish to discover the wonderful Caravaggio exhibition as well. Open until July 6th. At a cost of €33.00 BOOK NOW
By purchasing the ticket through our website, you will choose the official platform of Tiqets.com, which offers tickets at the best price and with immediate email confirmation. Do not miss the chance to immerse yourself in the art and history of Palazzo Barberini, book your entrance online now!
SPECIAL EXHIBITION ON CARAVAGGIO
FROM MARCH 7TH TO JULY 6TH
For an even more complete experience, choose the combined ticket and also access the special exhibition on Caravaggio on the occasion of the Jubilee 2025. Don't miss the opportunity to admire 24 autograph masterpieces by the Baroque master displayed in an exclusive event. Buy the combined ticket now and discover the full beauty of Palazzo Barberini!
Palazzo Barberini, home of the National Gallery of Ancient Art, follows regular opening hours that allow visitors to enjoy its extraordinary collections. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with last admission allowed at 6 p.m. It is important to note that the building is closed on Mondays, as well as on some national holidays, such as December 25 and January 1.
Hours may vary during special events, temporary exhibitions, or holidays, so it is always advisable to check the official website before visiting. In particular, during Jubilee 2025, Palazzo Barberini will be hosting a special exhibition on Caravaggio, an event that may result in changes to hours or ticket availability.
To avoid long waits, it is advisable to purchase your ticket online and plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon, when the flow of visitors is generally smaller.
Palazzo Barberini is located in the heart of Rome, in a strategic location within easy reach of many of the city’s major tourist attractions. The exact address is Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13, 00184 Rome, Italy, just a short walk from Piazza Barberini and Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s famous Fontana del Tritone.
Located in the Trevi district, the building is surrounded by important sights such as the Trevi Fountain, the Quirinale, the Spanish Steps, and Villa Borghese. This makes it an ideal stop for those wishing to explore Baroque Rome and its artistic masterpieces.
Thanks to its central location, Palazzo Barberini is easily accessible by public transportation and is one of the most fascinating destinations for art lovers visiting the Italian capital.
Palazzo Barberini is located in an area well connected by Rome’s main public transportation, making it easy to access for both those staying in the city and those arriving from other locations.
By subway: The Barberini stop (Line A) is just a 5-minute walk from the palace entrance. From Termini station, simply take Line A towards Battistini and get off at the second stop.
By bus: Several bus lines stop near Palazzo Barberini, including 52, 53, 62, 63, 71, 80, 83, 85, 160, 492. The nearest stop is Barberini.
By car: If you arrive by car, be aware that the area is restricted traffic zone (ZTL) during the day. We recommend parking in nearby private garages, such as Parking Ludovisi or Parking Villa Borghese, both about a 10-minute walk away.
Walking: Palazzo Barberini is a pleasant walk from many tourist attractions. For example, it is about a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain and 15 minutes from the Spanish Steps.
For a stress-free visit, it is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance and arrive a little early, especially during peak tourist season.
Palazzo Barberini is an ideal destination to visit at any time of year, but some seasons offer a more enjoyable experience than others.
High season (April-October): During spring and summer, Rome is particularly crowded with tourists, and Palazzo Barberini can be busier, especially on weekends. If visiting during this time, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid rush hours.
Low season (November – March): This is the best time to visit the museum more quietly. The cooler days make the visit more comfortable, and the rooms are less crowded, allowing you to better enjoy the works on display.
A special time to visit Palazzo Barberini will be during Jubilee 2025, when it will host an exclusive exhibition on Caravaggio, attracting many art lovers from all over the world. In this case, it is strongly recommended to purchase your ticket in advance to guarantee your access.
The recommended tour time for Palazzo Barberini varies depending on the level of in-depth study desired.
Short tour (1 – 1.5 hours): If you only want to see the main works, you can focus on the rooms that house masterpieces such as Caravaggio’s “Judith and Holofernes,” Raphael’s “La Fornarina” and Pietro da Cortona’s frescoes.
Standard tour (2 – 3 hours): This duration allows you to leisurely explore the collections of the National Gallery of Ancient Art, including works by artists such as Titian, El Greco and Guido Reni, as well as admire the palace’s Baroque architecture and Borromini’s famous Helicoidal Staircase.
In-depth tour (more than 3 hours): Perfect for those who want to devote attention to every detail, including historical documents, temporary exhibitions, and the special exhibition on Caravaggio 2025.
Regardless of time available, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long waits and optimize the visiting experience.
Palazzo Barberini is accessible to visitors with special needs, thanks to a series of measures designed to ensure an inclusive experience.
Entrance and internal routes: The palace is equipped with elevators and ramps that allow access to the different floors, facilitating the visit even for people with reduced mobility.
Services for people with visual and hearing disabilities: Information materials are available in Braille, as well as audio guides and LIS video guides for visitors with hearing difficulties.
Wheelchair Access: Wheelchairs are available upon request at the museum entrance. It is advisable to contact museum staff in advance for any specific needs.
Dedicated restrooms and facilities: The building has accessible restrooms and a checkroom where any bulky equipment can be stored.
To ensure an optimal experience, it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance and check any needs with museum staff.
USEFUL INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT
FAQ
Palazzo Barberini is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with last admission allowed at 6 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and during some national holidays, such as December 25 and January 1.
The exhibition “Caravaggio 2025,” organized on the occasion of Jubilee 2025, will follow the same hours, but it is advisable to check for changes on the official website before visiting.
Yes, buying a ticket online is strongly recommended, especially for the exhibition dedicated to Caravaggio, which will have a limited number of daily admissions. Purchasing in advance allows you to avoid long lines and guarantee access on the desired day and time.
The recommended tour time varies according to the visitor’s interests:
Short tour (1 – 1.5 hours): for those who want to see only the main masterpieces of the National Gallery of Ancient Art.
Full tour (2 – 3 hours): includes the entire collection of Palazzo Barberini, its frescoes and the architecture of the palace.
Extended tour (over 3 hours): ideal for those who want to delve into every detail, including the “Caravaggio 2025” exhibition.
Palazzo Barberini is located at Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13, Rome, and is easily accessible by public transportation:
Metro: Line A, Barberini stop (a 5-minute walk away).
Bus: Lines 52, 53, 62, 63, 71, 80, 83, 85, 160, 492, Barberini stop.
Walking: The building is a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain and 15 minutes from the Spanish Steps.
By car: The area is restricted traffic zone (ZTL), so parking in private facilities such as Parking Ludovisi or Parking Villa Borghese is recommended.
No, the Caravaggio exhibition has a separate ticket. You can purchase either a single ticket for the exhibition or a combination ticket that also includes access to Palazzo Barberini. The combined option is ideal for those who want a more complete and in-depth experience.
Yes, Palazzo Barberini is fully accessible.
The museum has:
Elevators and ramps to facilitate movement.
Wheelchairs available upon request at the entrance.
Audio guides and LIS video guides for visitors with hearing difficulties.
Accessible bathrooms and a checkroom for any bulky equipment.
We recommend contacting museum staff prior to your visit for any specific needs.
For any other information, it is always advisable to consult the official website or purchase your ticket online in advance for a stress-free experience.
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what to see in PALAZZO BARBERINI
Located in the heart of Rome, Palazzo Barberini is one of the city’s most fascinating residences, housing an extraordinary art collection and breathtaking architecture that represents the best of Italian Baroque. This impressive palace, now home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art, is a true treasure trove of masterpieces and an essential destination for art and history lovers. Walking through its frescoed rooms, admiring its masterpieces, and discovering the architectural innovations of great masters of the past, you embark on a journey through centuries of beauty and creativity. Here’s what to absolutely see at Palazzo Barberini for a complete and unforgettable experience.
The Architecture of the Palace: A Baroque Masterpiece
Even before crossing the threshold of Palazzo Barberini, it is impossible not to be struck by its architectural majesty. Built in the 17th century for the Barberini family, it was designed by the greatest architects of the time: Carlo Maderno, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Francesco Borromini. The building is a perfect example of Baroque architecture, with its wide facade, elegant loggias, and large internal courtyard. Already at the entrance, one perceives a sense of grandeur, made even more evident by the presence of two monumental staircases: Bernini’s Scalone d’Onore, solemn and imposing, reflecting the architect’s theatrical approach, and Borromini’s Helical Staircase, one of the most extraordinary works of all Baroque, with its spiral structure that seems to ascend lightly and effortlessly. These two staircases, located on opposite sides of the palace, symbolize two different and complementary artistic visions, making Palazzo Barberini a unique place.
The Triumph of Divine Providence by Pietro da Cortona
One of the palace’s most impressive masterpieces is undoubtedly the gigantic fresco decorating the ceiling of the main hall: “The Triumph of Divine Providence,” created between 1632 and 1639 by Pietro da Cortona. This work, considered one of the highest expressions of Roman Baroque, is a riot of movement, colors, and optical illusions. The scene depicts the celebration of the Barberini family, with allegories exalting their power and influence. The use of perspective creates a three-dimensional effect that takes one’s breath away, giving the illusion that the vault opens towards the sky. A visit to Palazzo Barberini cannot be considered complete without taking a few minutes to admire this extraordinary fresco and be captivated by its scenic dynamism.
The Masterpieces of the National Gallery of Ancient Art
In addition to its architectural beauty, Palazzo Barberini is famous for housing one of Italy’s most important art collections. The National Gallery of Ancient Art contains masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the eighteenth century, with works by some of history’s greatest artists. Among the must-see works:
- “Judith and Holofernes” by Caravaggio – A painting of extraordinary expressive power, where the dramatic light and raw realism typical of the artist capture the moment Judith beheads General Holofernes.
- “La Fornarina” by Raphael – An enigmatic portrait of young Margherita Luti, the painter’s lover. The work fascinates with the delicacy of the skin, the depth of gaze, and the sensuality of the subject.
- “Venus and Adonis” by Titian – A refined painting representing mythological history with vibrant colors and soft brushstrokes typical of the Venetian school.
- Works by El Greco, Hans Holbein, Guido Reni, Bronzino, Piero di Cosimo, and many others that showcase the evolution of art through the centuries.
Each room in Palazzo Barberini is a journey through different eras and styles, with masterpieces that tell the story of European painting through the centuries.
Temporary Exhibitions: The Great Caravaggio Exhibition for Jubilee 2025
In addition to its permanent collection, Palazzo Barberini periodically hosts high-level temporary exhibitions. On the occasion of Jubilee 2025, the palace will host an extraordinary exhibition dedicated to Caravaggio, bringing together 24 autograph masterpieces by the Lombard master. Among the works on display are “Portrait of Maffeo Barberini,” the famous “Ecce Homo” from the Prado Museum, and “Saint Catherine of Alexandria” from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This exhibition represents a unique opportunity to delve into Caravaggio’s genius and his revolutionary use of light and shadow.
The Garden of Palazzo Barberini
After exploring the artistic wonders of the palace, a stop in the garden is the perfect way to conclude your visit. This little-known but fascinating green space offers a corner of tranquility in the heart of Rome. Designed following Baroque standards, the garden features shaded paths, fountains, and picturesque views that provide a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for a break before continuing your exploration of the city.
Why Visit Palazzo Barberini?
Palazzo Barberini is not just a museum but a true immersive experience in Baroque art and architecture history. By visiting it, you can admire some of history’s most important paintings, discover Bernini and Borromini’s architectural innovations, get lost among spectacular frescoes, and participate in unique exhibitions like the one dedicated to Caravaggio. Whether you are an art enthusiast, curious about history or simply looking for an extraordinary place to visit in Rome, Palazzo Barberini is an essential stop for anyone wishing to experience the timeless charm of Italian Baroque.