Palazzo Barberini is a grand 17th-century Baroque palace in Rome that houses the Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica, one of Italy’s premier collections of classical painting. Commissioned by Pope Urban VIII in 1625, the palace was designed by leading ... read morearchitects of the era, including Carlo Maderno, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Francesco Borromini. Notable architectural features include Bernini’s sweeping staircase and Borromini’s spiral stairway, along with Pietro da Cortona’s iconic ceiling fresco, “Allegory of Divine Providence and Barberini Power.”

The museum’s collection spans several centuries, from the 13th to the 18th, and includes masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, El Greco, and Hans Holbein. Visitors can view highlights such as Raphael’s “La Fornarina,” Caravaggio’s “Judith Beheading Holofernes,” and Holbein’s “Portrait of Henry VIII.” The gallery also displays works like Guercino’s “Et in Arcadia ego” and Lanfranco’s “Venus Playing the Harp,” showcasing the depth and richness of Baroque and Renaissance art.

Located near Piazza Barberini in central Rome, the museum offers a quiet and immersive experience into classical European art and history. Its elegant halls, extensive collection, and peaceful atmosphere make it a standout destination for visitors interested in art, architecture, and Roman heritage. The gallery provides a blend of cultural enrichment and aesthetic beauty in the heart of the city.