Palazzo Barberini: Caravaggio, Raphael and How to Visit

The Palazzo Barberini, built by the family of the same name, is an elegant 17th-century baroque palace that now houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art. It's one of the most important art museums in Rome.

What to see at Palazzo Barberini

The works in this museum come from donations by noble Roman families and make up a prestigious picture gallery whose best-known names include El Greco, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero di Cosimo and Raphael.

The palace itself, with its rooms, furniture and decoration, is a treasure in its own right. The vault of the great central hall is decorated with a fresco by Pietro da Cortona called  Allegory of Divine Providence, one of the finest displays of baroque illusionism anywhere.

Other parts of the palace worth singling out are the grand staircase by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and the elliptical staircase designed by Borromini.

A movie location

If the facade looks familiar, you may be a fan of Audrey Hepburn. This is where scenes of her role as Princess Ann were filmed for William Wyler's Roman Holiday.

It's one of the main attractions in the Trevi district, one of the most central neighborhoods in Rome and home to the world-famous Trevi Fountain.

While Palazzo Barberini isn't one of the must-see sights to visit in Rome, it's a rewarding stop if you love Italian baroque art and architecture.

Tickets

Buy your tickets for Palazzo Barberini; they also include entry to the Corsini Gallery.

If you have the Omnia Card tourist pass, you can also get a discount on admission.

Address

Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13

Getting there

Metro: Line A, Barberini stop
Buses: 52, 53, 56, 58, 58/, 60, 61, 95, 116, 175, 492, 590

Opening hours

Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Closed Mondays, January 1 and December 25