Tips for Visiting the Capitoline Museums in Rome

The Capitoline Museums in Rome are not just a collection of art; they are a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Roman history and culture. Nestled atop the legendary Capitoline Hill, these museums present an impressive array of artifacts, sculptures, and artworks that have captivated visitors for centuries. If you're planning to explore this iconic site, here’s everything you need to know to make your visit unforgettable.

Piazza del Campidoglio: The Heart of Roman History

The Piazza del Campidoglio stands as one of Rome's most historically significant squares. Its beauty and importance are not only derived from its architectural grandeur but also from its location on the sacred Capitoline Hill. This site was revered in ancient times, home to the great Temple of Jupiter, a vital center for religious and political activities in Rome.

During the Middle Ages, the focus of the hill shifted from sacred to civic, particularly with the construction of the Palazzo Senatorio in the 12th century, which now houses the city hall. The true transformation of the square occurred during the Renaissance, thanks to a significant redesign led by the brilliant Michelangelo. Key features of this redesign included:

• Reorienting the square towards St. Peter's Basilica, marking it as the new political center of Rome.
• Redesigning the Palazzo dei Conservatori to remove its medieval elements.
• Constructing the new Palazzo Nuovo.
• Renovating the Palazzo Senatorio with a grand double staircase.
• Placing the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, with the original housed in the museums.
• Creating the "Cordonata," a magnificent staircase leading into the square, adorned with marble statues.

Today, Piazza del Campidoglio is the only remaining Renaissance square in Rome, serving not only as a tourist destination but also as the city's administrative center. It marks the geographic starting point, or km0, for all of Italy's roads, reminiscent of its historical significance during the Roman Empire.

As you stroll through the square, don't miss the famous replica of the Capitoline Wolf, which symbolizes the legendary founding of Rome by Romulus and Remus. The original statue can be found within the Capitoline Museums, which you are about to explore.

Visiting the Piazza del Campidoglio: A Step Back in Time

Your visit to the Capitoline Museums should ideally begin at the elegant staircase designed by Michelangelo, known as the Cordonata. Here, two majestic lions guard your ascent, leading you to the statue of Cola di Rienzo, a historical figure who attempted to revive the Roman Republic in the 14th century.

Before climbing the Cordonata, take a moment to view the left staircase, the Escalinata de Aracoeli, leading to the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli. This basilica, with its modest facade, houses a treasure trove of art, including the magnificent Bufalini Chapel adorned with frescoes by Pinturicchio.

Upon reaching the piazza, your gaze will be drawn to the impressive equestrian statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, which stands at three meters tall. This statue is a testament to the emperor's clemency, as he is depicted with a noble gesture towards a barbarian leader. The original resides in the museums, ensuring its preservation.

Across from you stands the Palazzo Senatorio, the seat of the city council. Here, you'll find a smaller replica of the Capitoline Wolf, along with an excellent viewpoint overlooking the Roman Forum.

To your right lies the Palazzo dei Conservatori, and on your left, the Palazzo Nuovo, both of which house the Capitoline Museums connected by the underground Galleria Lapidaria, a fascinating prelude to your museum experience.

The Birth of the Museums: A Historical Perspective

The Capitoline Museums claim the title of the oldest public museum in the world, originating in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a significant collection of bronze works to the city, including the famed Capitoline Wolf. Over the years, subsequent popes contributed additional pieces, enriching the collection further. The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 1735 under Pope Benedict XIV, marking the beginning of its status as a cultural treasure.

In the decades that followed, the museums expanded significantly. The establishment of the Capitoline Picture Gallery included private collections from influential families, solidifying the plural designation of "museums." Today, the Capitoline Museums are not only a place for art but also the repository of Rome's most significant archaeological discoveries.

As you explore, you will encounter both ancient and medieval remnants, offering a unique perspective on how the past has shaped the present.

Must-See Highlights in the Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums are home to an array of extraordinary works, but a few stand out as essential viewing:

• The equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, located in the Roman Garden behind the Palazzo dei Conservatori.
• In the Palazzo dei Conservatori, witness the Capitoline Wolf, Bernini's bust of Medusa, and the Espinario from the 1st century BC.
• Explore the colossal fragments of the statue of Constantine, including its head and foot, which evoke the grandeur of ancient Rome.
• In the Palazzo Nuovo, marvel at the massive statue of Marforio, the Discobolus, and the Dying Gaul, alongside the Venus Capitolina.
• The Galleria Lapidaria features a captivating collection of Roman inscriptions that provide insight into the past.

Getting There: Your Path to the Capitoline Museums

Reaching the Piazza del Campidoglio is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available:

• Metro: The closest station is Circo Massimo (Line B), approximately 1.5 km away.
• Tram: Take tram line 8 to Venezia.
• Bus: Look for routes 30, 44, 81, 83, 85, 87, 130F, 160, 170, and others that stop nearby.

Hours of Operation: Plan Your Visit Right

The Capitoline Museums operate under the following schedule:

• Open daily from 09:30 AM to 07:30 PM.
• On December 24 and 31, hours are shortened to 09:30 AM to 02:00 PM, with ticket sales ending one hour before closing.
• Closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Admission Information: Know Before You Go

The ticket office is conveniently located at Piazza del Campidoglio, within the Palazzo dei Conservatori. To save time, consider purchasing tickets online in advance. Here’s a breakdown of the admission prices:

• Standard ticket: €13.50.
• Reduced ticket: €11.50 for EU citizens under 26 and teachers.
• 50% discount: Available on Wednesdays during the last two hours of operation.
• Free admission: First Sunday of each month, children under six, school groups, and companions of disabled visitors.
• Individual audio guides available in Spanish for €7.

Visitors with the OMNIA Card can access the museums as part of their experience, alongside other attractions. Additionally, the Roma Pass and Go City Roma passes offer similar benefits.

* Admission prices may vary during special events or temporary exhibitions.

Tips for Visiting the Capitoline Museums: Make the Most of Your Experience

To ensure a smooth visit to the Capitoline Museums, consider these practical tips:

• Enter through the Piazza del Campidoglio via the Palazzo dei Conservatori.
• Allocate at least two hours for a thorough exploration of the exhibits. The experience can be tailored to your interests.
• The museum offers a free cloakroom for bags and strollers.
• Enjoy the on-site café and bookstore, which are accessible without needing admission to the museums.
• Observe museum rules: no flash photography, tripods, or large bags are allowed, and eating or drinking is prohibited inside the galleries.
• Check the museum's official website for detailed visitor information and descriptions of exhibits in advance.

Fascinating Facts About the Capitoline Museums

Here are some intriguing tidbits about the Capitoline Museums and their surroundings:

• The redesign of the square was commissioned by Pope Paul III, who felt embarrassed by its previous condition as a goat pasture.
• The equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius appears on the Italian passport and is also featured on the 0.50€ coin.
• This statue survived the Middle Ages due to the mistaken belief that it depicted the pro-Christian Emperor Constantine.
• Many equestrian statues were melted down for bronze, but Marcus Aurelius remains the only bronze statue of a pre-Christian Roman emperor still in existence.
• The design of the square is also reflected in the Italian passport.

Immerse yourself in the history and artistry of Rome as you explore the Capitoline Museums, where each corner tells a story, and every artifact resonates with the echoes of the past. Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, the museums promise a memorable experience.

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