5 of the best museums to see in Rome

There would be few that would oppose the statement of Rome being one of the most important cultural and historical centers in the world, period.

Being such an important city throughout the history of time,  it’s no surprise that the city has a mixture of ancient relics, as well as symbols from various modern ages.

Art galleries are museums in Rome that act as the perfect means to preserve this interesting and valuable legacy in order for future generations to be able to learn about the past.

For tourists not looking to spend their whole visits at their hotels, visiting one of these places can grant a truly unforgettable experience.

In this article, we will list a few of the most important cultural centers to visit while you're visiting the capital of Italy. We're sure that everyone will find something to learn and love about these places.

Looking for local advice? Our Rome tour guides can be of wonderful help to anyone!

The many museums of Vatican

It’s difficult to emphasize the meaning of Vatican City to Rome not only as a religious, but a cultural center as well.

The place is known for hosting some of the most amazing art pieces ever envisioned by man like the Chapel of Sistine and its frescoed roof completed by Michelangelo.

Of course, this is just one famous example that will make this definitely worth visiting.

There are thousands of other treasures which are impossible to see in one day. If you were planning to visit the Vatican in the first place, dedicate enough time to see what’s what’s what.

We guarantee that it will be an experience you’ll never forget.

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

If you’re looking for something more modern in terms of time period, then, what better place to visit than the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art?

Here you'll have arguably the largest collection of art from the 19th and 20th century in one place.

Breathtaking paintings, sculptures and other art installations are the best way to experience how the “change of the times” influenced the standards of art from that period.

Naturally, you’ll see many surrealist, futurist, impressionist and other art examples. Van Gogh, Degas, Monet are just a few author examples that you’ll find here.

Palazzo Pamphili

While less of a museum as such, the Palazzo Pamphili is the perfect example of 17th century Italian architecture at its finest.

Located in one of Rome’s main city streets, many still overlook this object when paying Rome a visit.

Apart from its immense natural presence, one may go inside to see one of the most spectacular private art collections ever assembled, including the famous portrait of pope Innocent the 10th, considered by many critics to be the finest portrait ever laid down.

An underrated place, the palace will surely be worthy of your time.

Memorial House of Keats–Shelley

For those that love books, the names John Keats and Percy Shelley certainly do ring a bell.

These English poets from the Romantic era are considered one of the finest writers of the era, whose many poems changed the perception of literature that should be written for many.

The house is definitely worth visiting for those that want to learn more about these two figures and their life, which is reflected in the many books, manuscripts as well as paintings left from that era.

While dedicated towards a more niche audience, it's still worth visiting for those that want to learn everything there is about Rome.

MAXXI - museum for the present and future

For those that are interested in 21st century art, there is no better place in the city than MAXXI dedicated to artistic expressions reflecting the present and the future from contemporary artists.

Apart from sculptures, paintings and other typical exhibitions, the venue is also a place for regular educational projects, concerts and so on.

Keen art enthusiasts or people that simply want to see what Italy is all about these days culturally, there is no better art gallery.

All in all

In this article we’ve talked about some of the best museums and art galleries in the city.

We reckon that these few places perfectly encapsulate what Italian culture is all about and a visit to them will definitely paint a clearer picture of what everything it’s all about.