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Explore Rome’s classical legacy at Palazzo Nuovo

Palazzo Nuovo | An archive of history’s finest statues

Sitting right on the iconic Piazza del Campidoglio, the Palazzo Nuovo is a must-visit for anyone who loves history and art! This gorgeous 18th-century mansion is part of the Capitoline Museums and is home to an incredible collection of ancient Greek and Roman treasures, including life-size busts of philosophers and ancient Roman rulers. Imagine looking Julius Caesar right in the eye!

Plan your visit to Palazzo Nuovo

Opening hours

Daily: 9:30am to 7:30pm

December 24 and December 31: 9:30am to 2pm

Last entry: Last entry is 1 hour before closing time.

Closed: May 1 and December 25.

Best time to visit: The Capitoline Museums are best visited in the evening, especially if you want to catch the views from Capitoline Hill as the sun begins to set. The warm, golden light makes the nearby landmarks like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum glow, offering a picturesque scene perfect for photos and leisurely strolls. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are also ideal seasons, with mild weather that makes it pleasant to explore both the museums and the surrounding historic areas. 

Location

Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186 Rome, Italy

Find on maps

The Palazzo Nuovo is one of the buildings that make up the Capitoline Museums on Capitoline Hill in Rome. It's located on the north side of Michelangelo's Piazza del Campidoglio, opposite the Palazzo dei Conservatori.

Closest landmark: Capitoline Piazza, 1 min away

Visitor information

  • Tickets for Palazzo Nuovo are not sold separately. You will need to purchase a combined ticket that includes access to both Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo. You also can't enter Palazzo Nuovo directly; access is only through Palazzo dei Conservatori. After exploring that side of the museum, be sure to use the underground passage to reach Palazzo Nuovo.
  • The Capitoline Museums, including Palazzo Nuovo, are covered by the Rome Pass, allowing faster entry for visitors who plan to use this convenient travel pass during their visit. If you’re short on time, this is the way to go!

The history of Palazzo Nuovo in a nutshell

  • 1471: Pope Sixtus I donates important bronze statues to Rome, including the She-Wolf and the colossal head of Constantine I. These statues are placed on the facade of the Palazzo dei Conservatori on Capitoline Hill.
  • Mid-1500s: More famous pieces, like the bronze statue of Hercules and three panels of Marcus Aurelius, are added. Pope Paul III also plans to move the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius to the Palazzo del Quirinale.
  • 1603: The Palazzo Nuovo is built by Girolamo Rainaldi and his son Carlo to mirror the Palazzo dei Conservatori, designed by Michelangelo, completing the symmetry of Piazza del Campidoglio.
  • 1654: Construction is completed during the papacy of Pope Innocenzo X Pamphilj.
  • 1734: Palazzo Nuovo opens as Rome’s first public museum, showcasing ancient sculptures.
  • 1800s: The museum collection grows as new ancient artifacts are discovered during excavations, especially when Rome becomes Italy’s capital in 1870.



Book your tickets to Palazzo Nuovo in the Capitoline Museums

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Frequently asked questions about Palazzo Nuovo

Who designed Palazzo Nuovo?

The building was originally designed by Michelangelo and then constructed by Giacomo della Porta in the mid-16th century.

Can I visit both Palazzo Nuovo and Palazzo dei Conservatori on the same day?

Yes, you can! Besides, both buildings are part of the Capitoline Museums, and therefore your ticket grants access to both.

How can I get to Palazzo Nuovo?

Several buses, including routes 30, 51, 85, and 87, stop at Ara Coeli, just a 2-minute walk away. If you're coming from the Colosseo metro station, it's only a 10-minute walk.

Where can I grab a quick bite near Palazzo Nuovo?

You can stop by Lemongrass Gelato for delicious ice cream or head to Saaz Restobar for a great drink in a more relaxed atmosphere.

How is Palazzo Nuovo’s collection different from Palazzo dei Conservatori’s?

Palazzo Nuovo features important statues like the Dying Gaul and Capitoline Venus, while Palazzo dei Conservatori is home to the iconic She-Wolf, a key attraction. Both buildings are part of the Capitoline Museums, showcasing Rome's rich artistic heritage.

How long should I spend at Palazzo Nuovo?

You should plan to spend at least one to two hours at Palazzo Nuovo.