Musei Capitolini (Capitoline Museums), Rome (must see)

The Capitoline Museums in Rome are among the city's most prestigious art and archaeology institutions, second in prominence only to the Vatican Museums. Established in 1471 by Pope Sixtus IV, who donated significant bronze sculptures to the city, it is recognized as the world's oldest public museum. Designed by Michelangelo in 1536, the museum spans two main buildings: the Conservators' Palace and the New Palace, housing artifacts from ancient, medieval, and Renaissance periods.

Significant expansions occurred in 1734 under Pope Clement XII, who added Cardinal Albani’s antiquities to prevent their export. Rodolfo Lanciani’s 19th-century reorganization emphasized the archaeological context. The collection now covers nearly 13,000 square meters and includes modern additions such as the Central Montemartini branch and the Exedra of Marcus Aurelius.

Local highlights include the Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, moved indoors in 1990 (its place in the square is now taken by a replica), and the iconic Capitoline Wolf, a bronze sculpture potentially dating to the 5th century BC or the medieval period. The Colossus of Constantine, the Hercules of the Forum Boarium, and the Boy with Thorn are among other bronze masterpieces found here. Also noteworthy are The Dying Gaul and Arnolfo di Cambio’s Portrait of Charles I of Anjou made in the 13th century, Europe’s earliest lifelike portrait of a living figure.

Historical artifacts include the Protomoteca, busts relocated from the Pantheon, and the Conaccordo Gallery, which connects the palaces and leads to the Tabularium and the Temple of Veiovis. The Conservators' Palace features the Hall of the Horatii and Curiatii with 16th-century frescoes, and the Pinacoteca Capitolina which displays Renaissance works by Caravaggio, Titian, and Tintoretto. Its corridor showcases an Epigraphic Collection, while a staircase leading to the Tabularium gallery affords breathtaking views of the Roman Forum.

With a full-day ticket, visitors can leisurely explore both palaces, culminating in a panoramic view of ancient Rome.

The Capitoline Museums also hold historical significance as the venue where the 1957 Treaties of Rome, a cornerstone of the European Union, were signed.

Tip:
The Terrazza Caffarelli café atop the Capitoline Museums offers stunning panoramic views of Rome's rooftops and ancient ruins, especially at sunset. Enjoy excellent coffee, cakes, or an aperitivo with snacks. Accessible via Piazzale Caffarelli, the café welcomes all, even those without museum admission, for a memorable culinary and scenic experience.