National Roman Museum - Palazzo Altemps

The National Roman Museum at Palazzo Altemps, located in the heart of Rome near Piazza Navona, is one of the four locations of the National Roman Museum. This splendid Renaissance building was constructed in the 16th century by order of Cardinal Marco Sittico Altemps, nephew of Pope Pius IV, and represents one of the most beautiful aristocratic palaces in Rome. Today, the palace houses one of the most important collections of ancient sculpture, thanks to a series of acquisitions and donations from illustrious Roman noble families. The visit to the museum begins with entering the imposing inner courtyard, surrounded by a two-story portico. The Doric and Ionic columns, along with the stucco decorations, create an elegant atmosphere that prepares the visitor for what they will find inside. The courtyard is adorned with ancient sculptures and reliefs, giving an immediate taste of the artistic richness of the museum. One of the most significant collections in the museum is the Ludovisi Collection, which includes masterpieces such as the “Ludovisi Throne,” a 5th-century BC funerary altar sculpted in Parian marble. This extraordinary work depicts Aphrodite rising from the sea and is considered one of the most important testimonies of classical Greek art. Next to this, we find the “Dying Gaul,” a Roman sculpture from the 1st century BC depicting a Gallic warrior in the act of suicide after killing his wife, a symbol of despair and barbaric honor. The “Great Ludovisi Sarcophagus” is another highlight of the collection, with its complex relief depicting a battle between Romans and barbarians. This 3rd-century AD sarcophagus is one of the finest examples of late Roman sculpture, characterized by extraordinary vivacity and dynamism of the figures. Equally interesting is the “Ludovisi Ares,” a 1st-century BC sculpture portraying the god of war in a relaxed pose, seated on a tree trunk with spear and shield, with a small Cupid at his feet. This contrast between the majesty of the deity and the sweetness of the putto adds an emotional dimension to the sculpture. Palazzo Altemps also houses the Egyptian collection, with artifacts ranging from the Old Kingdom to the Ptolemaic era, including statues, steles, and sarcophagi. This section of the museum allows visitors to explore the influence of Egyptian culture on Rome and to see up close objects of great historical and artistic value. Another highlight of the museum is the Chapel of St. Anicetus, a small Baroque gem located inside the palace. The chapel, dedicated to Pope Anicetus, houses his relics and is decorated with stuccoes and frescoes that create an atmosphere of great spirituality.