On Capitoline Hill at Piazza del Campidoglio, the Capitoline Museums bring Roman archaeology and art together in a complex of historic palaces. Their collection began in 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV gave bronze sculptures to the people of Rome. Look for the Capitoline Wolf, the Dying Gaul, the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and enormous fragments of Constantine’s statue. Galleries also hold works by Caravaggio and Titian. An underground passage links the buildings and opens onto views of the Roman Forum, so allow time to explore beyond the best-known sculptures.
A collection that began in 1471
The museums’ story starts in 1471, when Pope Sixtus IV donated a group of bronze statues to the people of Rome. The collection grew over the centuries, and the museums opened to the public in 1734. Many objects in the galleries come from Rome itself, linking the displays to the city beyond the museum walls.
The complex stands on Capitoline Hill, in Piazza del Campidoglio. The square and its surrounding palaces are associated with Michelangelo’s design. The museums occupy several buildings, including Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo, with an underground gallery connecting the two. The scale can be easy to underestimate from outside, so give yourself time to move between rooms and floors.
Sculpture from Rome and beyond
The Capitoline Wolf, a bronze she-wolf with Romulus and Remus, is among the collection’s best-known works. The twins connect the sculpture to the traditional account of Rome’s beginnings. Other major works include the Dying Gaul, the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and monumental remains of a statue of Constantine.
Roman sculpture is only part of the visit. The collections include statues of Roman gods and goddesses, Egyptian objects and works from the Greek and Hellenistic worlds. In the museums’ historic rooms, paintings by artists including Caravaggio and Titian offer a change of scale and medium. The mix of sculpture, archaeological finds and painting rewards a visit that is not limited to a quick look at the famous pieces.
The passage and the Forum views
The underground connection between the museum buildings is more than a route from one palace to another. The Tabularium gallery has views across the Roman Forum through its ancient arches. It is a good place to pause between collections and see the archaeological area from above.
The layout has several buildings and levels, and it can be hard to spot every important room without a plan. A museum map or guided tour can help you choose a route. Staff are available to assist with directions. If you need a break, the museum has a cafeteria; the rooftop café is also noted for its view over Rome and the Forum. The museums are close to the Roman Forum and within walking distance of the Colosseum.
FAQ
How long do you need at the Capitoline Museums?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to see the main sculptures, paintings and connected galleries.
Which works should I look for?
Highlights include the Capitoline Wolf, the Dying Gaul, the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and fragments of Constantine’s statue.
Should I book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, particularly during busy periods. Check the ticket details for any extra charge tied to a temporary exhibition.
Can you see the Roman Forum from inside the museums?
Yes. The Tabularium gallery looks across the Forum through ancient arches.
