Small group: Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums hold the distinction of being the world’s oldest public collection, showcasing an extraordinary range of artworks, from ancient statues to Renaissance masterpieces.  

The collection began with Pope Sixtus IV’s historic gift of the Lateran bronzes to the city of Rome. This invaluable contribution included iconic pieces such as the She-Wolf, the Spinario, the Camillus, and the colossal head of Constantine with his hand and globe. Over the centuries, these ancient sculptures have been carefully preserved and displayed on the Capitol.  

Your journey through this remarkable site begins at Palazzo Nuovo, home to a captivating array of famous sculptures. Here, you’ll encounter timeless masterpieces like the Dying Galata, the Capitoline Venus, the two Centaurs, and the Dancing Faun. You’ll also admire intricate reliefs, mosaics, and bronzes, as well as an impressive collection of busts depicting rulers from the Hellenistic and Roman eras.  

As you explore further, immerse yourself in the stunning works of renowned artists, including Caravaggio, Pietro da Cortona, Guercino, Tintoretto, Annibale Carracci, Paolo Veronese, Titian, Rubens, Antonio Van Dyck, and many others. With its blend of ancient wonders and Renaissance brilliance, the Capitoline Museums offer a captivating experience that spans the ages.