Galleria Borghese

Rome is bursting with endless galleries worth the visit, but if you only have time for one gallery stop, make sure its this one!

Offering you a break from the hustle and bustle of Rome’s busy streets, with Galleria Borghese often a quiet region home to some of the world’s greatest artworks and a stunning garden estate.

History of the Borghese Gallery

The gallery was once owned by a wealthy Italian family named by the Borghese family, hence the name. The Borghese family moved from Siena to Rome in the 16th century, where many of the family became high-ranking members of society, most particular Paul V who became Pope. Due to this, the Borghese family owned numerous estates, including this gallery, which was once the Villa Borghese Pinciana, owned by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who was the Pope Paul V’s nephew. Back in the day, Cardinal Scipione Borghese used this villa to hold extremely extravagant garden parties, while showcasing his impressive collection of artworks. However, over time the building became one of the first public art galleries, where visitors could marvel at works of art including Bernini and Caravaggio.

What you can see in Borghese Gallery

The building itself is a piece of artwork, with marble floors, stunning frescos on the walls, and detailed gold carvings on the ceilings. The artwork housed in the building is mostly Renaissance, Baroque, and Roman art, with some of the most famous pieces in this time presence. Wander through the rooms and see the Old Masters in all of Italy’s greatest pieces to note, with sculptures and paintings by Raphael, Bernini, Caravaggio and Canova, just to name a few!

One of the biggest draws for this gallery is not just the artwork held inside, but the stunning gardens scattered around the building. It is Rome’s second-biggest public park, with a vast array of plant life blooming about the walking paths. Each section has its style, with visitors able to wander through the bright flowers or hire a boat and row beneath the weeping willows. Enjoying a full afternoon of exploration after seeing all the artwork within the gallery.

The Borghese Gallery isn’t just a stunning gallery located in a public garden, but home to much more extraordinary sights. Home to a restaurant, a zoo, an arthouse movie theatre and much more! Travel to this memorable gallery and admire the astonishing display of beauty both in historic buildings, artwork, and lush gardens.