Situated in the heart of Rome, facing the Roman Forum, the Capitoline Museums boast a wealth of art and history unmatched in the world. As the oldest public museum complex across the globe, dating back to 1471, it contains a treasure trove of ancient Roman statues, medieval and Renaissance art, and a host of other antique artifacts.
Getting to the Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums are located on Piazza del Campidoglio atop the Capitol Hill, one of the famed seven hills of Rome. It can be reached via a short walk from Colosseo metro station, or by the 51, 85 or 87 bus lines.
Ticketing Information: Capitoline Museums
Tickets for the Capitoline Museums can be purchased either on-site at the official ticket offices or online through the official museum website. The standard ticket cost is €17 (for Rome residents €16), while a reduced ticket of €15 is available for EU citizens aged between 6 and 25.
Free Entry Conditions
The Museums offer free entry on the FIRST Sunday of every month. Additionally, children below 6 years, disabled people along with their carer, and journalists (with ID) can enjoy the museums free of cost anytime. Full list of who can enter for free you can find here.
Visiting Hours: Capitoline Museums
The Capitoline Museums is open every day from 9.30AM to 7.30 PM. Please note that the last admission is one hour before closing time.
What is inside the Capitoline Museum?
The Capitoline Museums comprise three main buildings – Palazzo Senatorio, Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo. These three palaces are home to a significant collection including the iconic Lupa Capitolina – the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, the original bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and the Dying Gaul – a masterpiece of Hellenistic art.
How Long Do You Need At The Capitoline Museum?
Prepare to dedicate at least half a day to fully explore the artifacts, statues, frescoes, and coins spread across the museums. Some visitors may even want to break their visit over two days.
Is the Capitoline Museum busy?
While the Capitoline Museums are less crowded compared to other tourist hotspots in Rome like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, it can get busy, especially during peak tourist season and on free entry days.
Are the Capitoline Museums Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! The collection in the Capitoline Museums is truly unparalleled, boasting significant works from Ancient Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance eras. The mix of art, history with stunning views of the city from the Terrazza Caffarelli makes for a rewarding cultural experience.
While it’s true that Rome offers an overwhelming range of historic attractions, one should not overlook the riches housed in the Capitoline Museums. Not only does it provide a deeper insight into Rome’s diverse past, its lesser crowd presents a rare opportunity to enjoy these masterpieces in peace. Certainly, a visit to these museums is a must on your Roman itinerary!
