Carlo Bilotti Museum

The Carlo Bilotti Museum, located in the charming setting of Villa Borghese in Rome, represents one of the most interesting exhibition spaces in the capital. Inaugurated in 2006, the museum houses a collection donated by the Italian-American entrepreneur and art collector Carlo Bilotti, which includes works by some of the most important artists of the twentieth century. The building that houses it, the Aranciera di Villa Borghese, is a place of great historical and architectural charm that adds further value to this cultural institution. The history of the museum is closely linked to the figure of Carlo Bilotti, born in Cosenza in 1934 and moved to the United States, where he became an important businessman and patron. Bilotti was a fervent supporter of contemporary art and collected works by artists such as Giorgio de Chirico, Andy Warhol, Larry Rivers, and Mimmo Rotella. His passion for art and his desire to share this passion with the public led him to donate his collection to the city of Rome, thus contributing to the creation of the museum that bears his name. The Aranciera di Villa Borghese, which houses the museum, is a historic building dating back to the sixteenth century. Originally conceived as a place to protect citrus fruits during the winter, the Aranciera has undergone several transformations over the centuries, becoming a modern and functional exhibition space. The renovation of the building was carried out with great care, maintaining the historical charm of the original architecture while creating a suitable space to host contemporary artworks. The collection of the Carlo Bilotti Museum is particularly known for its series of works by Giorgio de Chirico, one of the leading exponents of metaphysical painting. Among these, stand out the portraits of Bilotti’s wife, Tina, and a series of bronze sculptures representing mythological and archetypal figures. De Chirico’s works are characterized by suspended and enigmatic atmospheres, inviting the viewer to reflect on the mystery of existence and the relationship between reality and imagination. Another element of great interest in the collection is the portrait of Carlo Bilotti executed by Andy Warhol. This portrait is part of Warhol’s famous “Mao” series and represents a significant example of the silk-screen technique used by the American artist. The presence of this portrait in the museum underlines the importance of the bond between Bilotti and some of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. The Carlo Bilotti Museum is not only a space for contemplating art but also a place for meeting and cultural exchange. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, educational workshops, and special events that actively involve the public. This dynamic and interactive approach reflects Carlo Bilotti’s vision, who firmly believed in the power of art to enrich people’s lives and promote intercultural dialogue. From an architectural point of view, the Aranciera di Villa Borghese is an extraordinary example of how a historic building can be adapted to new functions without losing its original character. The renovation preserved architectural elements such as large windows and masonry structures, integrating them with modern solutions that ensure the preservation of the artworks and the comfort of visitors. The surrounding garden, an integral part of the Villa Borghese complex, offers a green space of great beauty where visitors can relax and reflect on the works seen inside the museum. An interesting anecdote concerns the process of donating the collection by Carlo Bilotti. It is said that Bilotti, during a visit to Rome, was impressed by the beauty of Villa Borghese and the opportunity to contribute to the city’s cultural life. He decided to donate a significant part of his personal collection, with the intention of creating a bridge between contemporary art and Rome’s historical heritage. This gesture of generosity has further enriched the city’s cultural offer, making the museum a reference point for art lovers. Today, the Carlo Bilotti Museum is a must-visit for those visiting Rome. Its location within Villa Borghese, one of the most beautiful parks in the city, makes it easily accessible and particularly enjoyable to visit. The museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in contemporary art, while enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of the surrounding park.