Museo Nazionale Romano - Palazzo Altemps (National Museum of Rome in Altemps Palace), Rome

A single ticket to the National Museum of Rome serves four different sites. One of them is the beautifully restored 15th-century Palazzo Altemps, home to the collection of classical Renaissance and Baroque sculptures, as well as some newer archaeological finds.

The palace carries a wealth of frescoes and wood ceiling paintings, revealed during restoration, and is sure to impress. As soon as you peek into the inner courtyard with beautiful sculptures, you will have the pleasure of an elegant sight.

The museum exhibits are spread over two floors and comprise Roman and Greek antiquities, as well as those of Egypt and the Medieval period. Among these are a wonderful fountain clad in a seashell mosaic, a collection of Roman emperors busts, a 2nd century AD bas-relief of gods and goddesses of Mount Olympia, plus a room dedicated to Moses adorned with a fresco depicting scenes from the prophet's life. The highlight of the exhibition is the Ludovisi Art Collection consisting of more than 100 sculptures, including the ancient classic Greek relief of the Ludovisi Throne: an original 5th-century BC work embellished with a delicate relief portraying the birth of Aphrodite.

The well-preserved remains of an ancient Roman building that once stood on the site of today's palace is yet another fascinating piece of history displayed here.

To add to the interest of the museum, most items have a brief description and explanation as well as "before and after" showings of how they were restored.

After the hustle and bustle of Rome's main attractions, Palazzo Altemps is a welcome escape, and each piece it displays deserves to be contemplated with attention. Without question, one of Rome's best collections of classical art.

Why You Should Visit:
A quiet and relaxing place torn between Renaissance architecture and Ancient Sculpture.
Unlike other galleries, these collections are sparingly and well displayed, instead of being crowded together.
There are no specific directions to follow and you can choose your own tour according to what you want to see.