Galleria Colonna
Via della Pilotta, 17, 00187 Roma RM
Rating: 4.9 ★ (3396 ratings)
Details
Galleria Colonna is a private palace housing a significant art collection within the Palazzo Colonna, one of Rome's oldest and largest private palaces, with the Colonna family still residing there after eight centuries. The gallery itself, established in 1654, is a true jewel of the Roman Baroque, characterised by sumptuous decorations, splendid mirrors, tapestries, and fine furnishings. It offers a unique glimpse into the lives of elite Roman families and stands out for its serene grandeur, far removed from the usual bustling tourist attractions.
Visitors to Galleria Colonna can marvel at an impressive collection of Old Masters art, including works by Tintoretto, Guido Reni, Paolo Veronese, and Annibale Carracci, whose "The Bean Eater" is considered a pivotal work in Italian art history. The frescoed halls are a major highlight, with the main vault of the reception hall depicting the Battle of Lepanto, celebrating Marcantonio Colonna's role. A curious feature is a cannonball embedded in a flight of stairs, remaining there since 1849. Beyond the art, the palace offers a blend of architectural styles, from medieval to Baroque splendour, and the extensive gardens provide charming views. The Princess Isabelle Apartments are also part of a comprehensive tour.
The Galleria Colonna is ideally suited for those seeking a more exclusive and intimate cultural experience, away from the crowds of major museums. It appeals greatly to art history enthusiasts, those interested in Roman aristocratic life, and visitors looking for a significant but often overlooked gem. As it is primarily open on Saturday mornings for public viewings, it works best for visitors who can plan their itinerary accordingly, often offering guided tours in English. Its overall appeal lies in its preserved grandeur, showcasing centuries of art and family history within a still-inhabited private palace, offering a truly immersive historical journey.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday: Closed | Friday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
Contact
+39 06 678 4350 | http://www.galleriacolonna.it/dove-siamo/
Comments
The main gallery was a filming location fon Roman Holiday. The frescos are stunning. Must see.
Unlike typical museums, this place feels alive since the Colonna family still resides here. The collection is world-class, but my favorite detail was the real cannonball still lodged in the marble stairs from 1849. The gardens offer a very peaceful view of the city.
Note: Access is quite limited (usually only Friday and Saturday mornings), so plan your visit in advance. It’s well worth the effort to see such authentic Baroque grandeur!
There are many beautiful things to see, from paintings to a stunning garden with statues. It is definitely worth the money to go inside.
The toilets were cleaned after every visitor, so the hygiene was excellent.