National Roman Museum - Palazzo Massimo — Attraction in Rome

It was described as having a superb collection of Greek and Roman antiquities, second only to the Vatican and including some of the finest frescoes ever found. Notes indicated to begin on the top floor with the mosaics and frescoes before getting tired. It was a good suggestion. The mosaics alone were beautiful, so very detailed. Some were as old as the second century BC. There were very big ones and very small ones with micromosaics (put in place with tweezers). There were geometric shapes, there were scenes with people, animals and plants, there were monochrome ones and there were multicoloured ones. Many were from the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. Then there were the frescoes. They came from a variety of sources. There were many almost complete painted walls from a villa only discovered in 1879 during work on the Tiber embankments. A number of rooms have been recreated with the rescued frescoes. Stunning. It was amazing to see mostly intact wall-paintings from a villa dating to 20-30 BC. Perhaps the highlight were the frescoes from a sunken garden at the Villa of Livia at Prima Porta (Livia was the wife of Octavian) dating to 20 BC. They are the oldest example of a continuous garden wall painting. They encompassed a rectangular area and are decorated with birds, trees and fruit. They were saved and transferred only in the 1980's.

Two hours later having finished that floor it was time for a floor of Roman sculpture. Again the period covered was from around the 2nd century BC to the 4th century AD. The Romans liked to copy classical Greek sculptures. There was one of the few mostly complete copies of the famous disc thrower from Greece. There were many busts. It is amazing how many are without noses. We were treated to some beautiful sarcophagi including the amazing Portonaccio sarcophagus from 180 AD. Then on the ground floor was the older sculpture, including some Greek works as old as the 5th century BC. Some would either have bern commissions made for Rome or brought back as war booty. A highlight was a wonderful bronze sculpture the "Resting Boxer".

Four hours was just long enough to see everything without rushing. It was very quiet on a...

Stepping into the National Roman Museum at Palazzo Massimo was like embarking on a captivating journey through the splendor and everyday life of ancient Rome. This hidden gem stands as a testament to the wealth of art, history, and culture that the Roman Empire bestowed upon the world.

The museum's collection is a treasure trove of well-preserved artifacts, sculptures, and mosaics that offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Romans. The lifelike portraits and intricate statues breathe life into the past, transporting you to an era where art and craftsmanship thrived.

One can't help but marvel at the skill of the artisans who created these masterpieces, and the museum's layout allows you to appreciate their details up close. From the grandeur of noble portraits to the everyday objects that reveal the essence of ancient life, every corner of Palazzo Massimo is a testament to the depth and variety of Roman culture.

The Palazzo itself is a masterpiece of architecture, providing a fitting backdrop to the treasures it houses. The serene and thoughtfully designed galleries create an atmosphere that encourages contemplation and connection with the past.

The museum's staff are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, making the experience even more enriching. Whether you're an avid history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the Roman Empire's legacy, the National Roman Museum - Palazzo Massimo is a must-visit destination in Rome.

Exploring its halls is like unearthing buried chapters of history, where each artifact is a page that tells a story of triumphs, challenges, and the enduring spirit of human creativity. This museum is a true gem that makes the legacy of ancient Rome come alive in a profound and...

During our recent visit to the National Roman Museum at Palazzo Massimo alle Terme in Rome, we were captivated by the exquisite mosaics on display. The museum was pleasantly quiet, allowing us to fully appreciate the intricate details and artistry of these ancient masterpieces.

The museum, established in 1889, was created to house the numerous artifacts unearthed during Rome’s urban expansion in the late 19th century. Its four floors showcase a vast collection of Roman art and artifacts, including sculptures, frescoes, and mosaics, offering a comprehensive journey through ancient Rome’s artistic heritage. 

Among the highlights is the Boxer at Rest, a striking bronze statue from the Hellenistic period, and the Portonaccio Sarcophagus, renowned for its detailed battle scenes. However, the second floor’s collection of mosaics truly stood out to us. These mosaics, with their vibrant colors and intricate designs, provide a glimpse into the daily life and artistic expression of ancient Rome.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with the ticket office closing an hour earlier at 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays.  As of our visit, the entrance fee was €8 per person, with a combined ticket option available for €12, granting access to all four branches of the National Roman Museum. 

For those interested in ancient art and history, Palazzo Massimo alle Terme is a must-visit. Its extensive collections and serene atmosphere provide a perfect setting to delve into...