Borghese Gallery is a not-to-be-missed attraction for those who love Italian artworks, aka the Villa “outside Porta Pinciana”. One of the greatest art collections in the world awaits you in a sumptuous and regal setting built by Scipione Borghese, Pope Paul V’s nephew in the early 17th century.
Scipione was a fervent art collector and he built the Villa specifically to host his invaluable collection. That is why the Borghese Gallery in Rome is considered Rome’s first museum, even before museums actually existed.
The Borghese Gallery sculptures collection includes several other masterpieces by Gianlorenzo Bernini, including The Truth, Scipione Borghese’s Bust and many of the artist’s self-portrait. The Museum also hosts one of the most famous works by the Italian Master of Neoclassic sculpture, Antonio Canova. Walk into the Paolina Room and pause to contemplate the wonderful statue of Paolina Borghese, Camillo Borghese’s wife, in the guise of Venus. The statue made waves when first exhibited because it represents the princess lying almost naked on a dormeuse.
As you continue your tour, marvel at the sight of the Old Masters, such as Raffaello’s famous Lady with Unicorn and Portrait of Pope Julius II, or Caravaggio’s David with the Head of Goliath, Boy with a Basket of Fruit, St Jerome, and Self-Portrait as Bacchus, to name but a few.
Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to see this incredible artwork collection in a superb setting and to learn all about the history of the Villa, of The Borghese family and of Rome. Book your Borghese Gallery tour to skip the line and to make the most of your visit on a small group tour with our expert and professional guides.