Palazzo Braschi, located in the heart of the capital, is now home to the Museum of Rome, a place that tells the story of the capital through its artistic and historical collections. In addition to its architectural beauty, the museum houses a wide range of works, from paintings to sculptures, tracing the transformation of Rome from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. A journey through time, with temporary exhibitions and events that make Palazzo Braschi a cultural landmark in the city.
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The History and Architecture of Palazzo Braschi
Palazzo Braschi was built between 1792 and 1804 at the behest of Luigi Braschi Onesti, nephew of Pope Pius VI. The project, entrusted to architect Cosimo Morelli, combines late Baroque and neoclassical styles, resulting in a monumental structure that celebrates the power and prestige of the Braschi family. During the Napoleonic period, the palace was occupied by the French authorities and, in the 20th century, became the seat of ministries and a refuge for World War II evacuees. Since 1952 it has housed the Museum of Rome, offering a unique overview of the city over the centuries.
A Journey through the Art and History of Rome
Palazzo Braschi houses an extensive permanent collection ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with works depicting daily life, urban transformations and highlights of the city. Among the painters represented are Canaletto, known for his urban landscapes, and Giovanni Paolo Pannini, famous for his architectural views.
Temporary exhibitions, always original and thematic, explore historical events and artistic movements that have defined Rome. A distinctive feature of the palace is the monumental staircase, also designed by Giuseppe Valadier. The museum holds more than one hundred thousand works, including paintings, sculpture, photographs, and furniture, presented in a thought-provoking display of Rome from the 17th to the 20th century.
Events, Workshops and Digital Innovation
In addition to exhibitions, Palazzo Braschi offers a rich calendar of cultural events, such as lectures and thematic guided tours, which take advantage of the magnificence of the palace’s spaces. Very popular are the educational workshops, designed for families and schools, which make the art and history of Rome accessible and engaging. In addition, the Museum of Rome has developed an innovative digital section that allows everyone to explore its collection remotely. Through videos, games and insights, the online platform allows people to learn about and discover the museum’s holdings from the comfort of home.
How to reach Palazzo Braschi and ticket costs
Palazzo Braschi is located at Piazza di San Pantaleo, 10, in the historic center of Rome, easily reached by public transportation. The nearest stops are those of bus lines 30, 46, 62, 64, 492, 916, and the Barberini subway station (Line A), about a 20-25 minute walk away. The museum is also within easy walking distanceof Piazza Navona (2 minutes), the Pantheon (10 minutes), and Campo de’ Fiori (15 minutes).
Tickets for the museum range between €13-15 for full admission, with reduced rates for students and the over-65s. Admission is free for children under 6, residents of Rome on the first Sunday of the month and certain professional categories.
Visiting Palazzo Braschi means taking a journey through the history of Rome, combining art, architecture and culture. The Museum of Rome’s collection offers a unique insight into the capital’s transformations, from its ancient splendor to the 20th century. Its prime location near Piazza Navona makes the visit even more fascinating, with extraordinary interiors and breathtaking views of the square. Temporary exhibitions and cultural events enrich the experience, making Palazzo Braschi a must-see for those who wish to discover the authenticity of Rome.