In museums around the world, priceless works of art are preserved: these institutions are essential for public access to art. Today, every city has at least one place to display artworks, but which is the oldest museum in the world? This title goes to Rome, as the Capitoline Museums were founded back in 1471 and are still open to visitors today.
The long history of the Capitoline Museums
Founded in 1471 by Pope Sixtus IV with the donation of a collection of bronze statues to the Roman people, including the famous She-Wolf, the Capitoline Museums represent a crucial centre of art and culture. Over the centuries, the collection grew thanks to donations from various popes. In 1734, the museum was further enriched by Cardinal Albani's collection, and it was consequently decided to open the museum to the public. It is, therefore, the first public museum in Italy and the world.
Over the centuries, the Capitoline Museums have seen the addition of works from archaeological excavations, private donations, and strategic acquisitions, but also the loss of some works during the Napoleonic period. One of the latest expansions occurred in 2005 with the inauguration of the Exedra of Marcus Aurelius, the reorganisation of some collections, and the reopening of the Lapidary Gallery.
The main works of the Capitoline Museums
The museum's collections range from ancient Roman sculptures to masterpieces of the Renaissance and Baroque periods, offering a journey through various historical and artistic eras. One of the most emblematic pieces is undoubtedly the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, originally located in Piazza del Campidoglio and now housed in the museum to protect it from the elements.
The museum also features the 5th-century BC Capitoline Wolf, parts of the statue of Constantine I, as well as reproductions of Greek works, such as those by Phidias. Additionally, the Capitoline Art Gallery holds paintings by Michelangelo, including "The Fortune Teller" and "St. John the Baptist," along with works by Rubens, Titian, and Velázquez. The average visit time is about two hours, but ideally, one should spend at least half a day there.
Opening hours and ticket prices of the Capitoline Museums
Visiting the Capitoline Museums is an unmissable experience if you are in Rome, so it might be helpful to plan your visit in advance by checking the opening hours and ticket prices. The museum is open every day from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, with the last entry allowed at 6:30 PM. However, on certain holidays, the hours may be reduced, and the museum is closed on May 1st and December 25th.
Ticket prices vary depending on different visitor categories. Without any exhibitions, the standard ticket costs 13 euros, and there are discounts available for various categories of visitors. Additionally, residents of the City of Rome are eligible for a reduced price. Tickets can also be purchased online through the museum's official website.
What to see near the Capitoline Museums
Visiting the Capitoline Museums also provides the opportunity to explore numerous attractions in the centre of Rome, including:
- Piazza del Campidoglio: Designed by Michelangelo, this square is a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance. The entrance to the museums is also located here.
- Roman Forum and Palatine Hill: Just a short walk from the museums, these ancient ruins bear witness to Rome's rich history. A journey through the centuries among temples, basilicas, and imperial residences.
- Monument to Victor Emmanuel II or Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland): Also known as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument, this imposing building offers various collections and exhibition spaces, as well as a panoramic terrace for breathtaking views.
- Church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli: Located right next to Piazza del Campidoglio, this church is famous for its monumental staircase leading to the main entrance.
How to get to the Capitoline Museums
Getting to the Capitoline Museums is easy thanks to Rome's public transport network. In particular:
- By bus: Several bus lines stop near the Capitoline Museums, including lines 30, 44, 51, 81, 83, 85, 87, 118, and 160. The nearest stop is "Ara Coeli/Piazza Venezia."
- By tram: Tram line 8 has a stop at Piazza Venezia, very close to the Capitoline Museums.
- By metro: The nearest station is Colosseo on metro line B. From here, the Capitoline Museums are reachable with a walk of about 10 minutes across the Imperial Fora.
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