Visit the Website for Musei Capitolini

The Capitoline Museums, located on the iconic Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome, Italy, are a significant cultural treasure for both locals and expatriates. Founded in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated a collection of important ancient bronzes to the people of Rome, they are considered the world's first public museums. The museums are housed in two buildings facing each other on the piazza—Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo. These historic structures are connected by an underground gallery beneath the piazza, known as the Galleria Lapidaria. The Capitoline Museums boast a vast collection of art and artifacts that span from ancient Rome to the Renaissance. Visitors can marvel at famous sculptures such as the bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, the Capitoline Wolf, and the Dying Gaul. Additionally, the museums offer an extensive collection of coins, jewels, and other items that provide insight into the daily life and history of Rome. The picture galleries include works by renowned artists like Caravaggio, Titian, and Rubens. For expatriates living in Rome, the Capitoline Museums offer a profound connection to the city's rich history and an opportunity to immerse themselves in the art and culture that have shaped Western civilization. The museums also host temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making them a dynamic place of learning and discovery throughout the year.