Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums, located on the Capitoline Hill, are considered the world's first public museums, having first opened to the public in 1734. Housed in two magnificent palaces, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo, designed by Michelangelo, they flank the central Piazza del Campidoglio. The museums boast an extraordinary collection of ancient Roman and Greek artworks, including iconic sculptures such as the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the 'Capitoline Wolf' (symbol of Rome), and the 'Dying Gaul.' They also feature a wealth of Roman busts, sarcophagi, and historical artifacts that illustrate the city's rich past. Beyond the ancient pieces, the Capitoline Museums also house a notable collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings. A visit not only offers a journey through art and history but also breathtaking views of the Roman Forum from the Tabularium, connecting the museums directly to Rome's ancient core.