Capitoline Museums

Overview

Founded in 1471, the Musei Capitolini hold the incredible, prestigious title of being the oldest public museums in the entire world. Spread across two magnificent palazzi atop the Capitoline Hill, they house Rome's greatest collection of ancient classical sculpture.

Highlights

• The Capitoline Wolf: The iconic, ancient bronze statue of the she-wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome.
• The Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius: The powerful, spectacularly preserved bronze statue of the philosopher-emperor, housed in a breathtaking modern glass rotunda.
• The Tabularium View: Walk through the subterranean gallery connecting the two palaces to emerge on a balcony offering the single most perfect, sweeping view straight down the ruined Roman Forum.

History

The museum was born when Pope Sixtus IV decided to donate a collection of pivotal ancient bronze statues (which had previously been locked away in the Lateran Palace) to the "people of Rome." The beautiful, sweeping piazza connecting the buildings was designed much later by Michelangelo.

Visitor Tips

• Pacing: It is less crowded and stressful than the Vatican Museums, allowing for a much quieter, contemplative experience with massive Roman statues.
• The Cafeteria: The museum café has a massive outdoor terrace offering sweeping, spectacular views across the rooftops towards the dome of the Pantheon.
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours.