Galleria Borghese is one of the most fascinating art galleries in Rome, and it exhibits some of the most beautiful art works created by some of the legendary artists of the world. The sole credit for the Galleria Borghese goes to Cardinal Scipione Borghese who was the nephew of a pope and a wealthy man of refined taste. This art gallery is situated at the stylish villa of the Cardinal Scipione Borghese who constructed this villa predominantly to exhibit his spectacular collection of antiquities and paintings created by the premier artists of his contemporary period. Heparticularly collected specially-commissioned pieces by famous artists like Bernini, Caravaggio, Titian and others.
Though the collection of Cardinal Scipione Borghese was undoubtedly dazzling, but the way he collected the artifacts was cruel and he frequently opted for treacherous methods like extortion, debt-collecting, and appropriation of church funds to create one of the most impressive art collections in the entire world. Some of the Cardinal’s archeological collections were sold to Napoleon by his brother-in-law Camillo Borghese, and then these items were shipped to the Louvre, yet the Galleria Borghese has an array of collections to boast of.
Most of the amazing paintings of the Galleria Borghese are in the gallery located upstairs. Some of the noted works here include Titian’s enigmatic Sacred and Profane Love, Venus Blindfolding Cupid, two flattering self-portraits by Bernini, works by Caravaggio, Reubens, Raphael, and a vast array of other masterpieces. The history of the original sculptures and paintings in the Borghese Gallery can be traced back to Cardinal Scipione’s collection. He was the son of Ortensia Borghese – Pope Paul V’s sister – and of Francesco Caffarelli. Subsequent events over the next three centuries which includes both losses and acquisitions have left their distinct mark on the collection. While visiting the Galleria Borghese visitors are bound to benefited from the notes in English which are available in each room and encompass art exhibits as well as the room frescoes and decorations.
Galleria Borghese is one of Rome’s most remarkable art galleries and museums, which displays some of the world’s greatest works of art in a superb setting. Since a limited number of visitors are allowed to enter the art gallery and they are also admitted at intervals into the gallery, so it will be advisable for visitors to book at least a few days ahead to ensure entry.
Galleria Borghese Map
Facts about Galleria Borghese
- The Galleria Borghese was established in 1903.
- Photography is banned in the gallery to prevent duplication.
- The gallery can accommodate 300 visitors for around two hours.
Where is Galleria Borghese?
Galleria Borghese is located in the huge park of the Villa Borghese on the Piazzale del Museo Borghese.
Best time to visit Galleria Borghese
The best time to visit Galleria Borghese in Rome is the spring season as the weather is pleasant.
Galleria Borghese Hours
The Galleria Borghese opens on Tuesdays to Sundays from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm. It is closed on Mondays, December 25th and January 1st.
Galleria Borghese Tickets
A full ticket for individual entry to the gallery costs € 11.00 (+ € 2.00 mandatory service charge).
- The entry tickets are available at reduced price of € 5.50 (+ € 2.00 mandatory service charge) to:
- European Union citizens between 18 and 25 years old
- European Union full-time public school teachers
More on Galleria Borghese
Nearby Attractions: Piazza di Spagna, Piazza del Popolo, Villa Borghese, Piazza della Repubblica, Villa d’Esten and Santa Maria della Vittoria.
Don’t miss Italy major attractions: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Amalfi Coast, Venice, Colosseum, Rome, Portofino, Uffizi Gallery, Pompeii.