Doria Pamphilj Gallery (Galleria Doria Pamphilj)
Via del Corso 305, Rome, Italy, 00186
Part of the sumptuous 16th-century Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, where descendants of the aristocratic Pamphilj family still live in apartments today, the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is one of Rome’s top destinations for art enthusiasts. The colossal, richly decorated gallery houses an impressive array of paintings, sculptures, and other works by renowned artists spanning from antiquity to the 19th century—think Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, and Velázquez.
The basics
The sumptuous Palazzo Doria Pamphilj comprises apartments of the aristocratic Pamphilj family, as well the Doria Pamphilj Gallery—one of Italy’s most prestigious private art collections. To breeze past the crowds and fully enjoy the palace’s history, book a guided tour with skip-the-line admission. Tours offer a glimpse into the life of Roman nobility and typically visit the palace ballroom, chapel, and apartments, which overflow with historic paintings and sculptures.
If you are a music fan, opt for a private tour of the palace that includes a classical music concert or opera performance inside the baroque halls.
Things to know before you go
- The gallery was first opened to the public in 1950, but completely renovated and rehung in 1998, when it also became the first art collection in Italy to introduce audio guides
- Art lovers who want to avoid the crowds in Rome’s more famous museums but enjoy important masterpieces will appreciate the relative peace inside the gallery.
- There is a cafè and a gift shop inside the gallery.
- The palace and gallery are not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is in the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj along Via del Corso, a short walk from the Piazza Venezia transportation hub and many of the most famous attractions in Rome’s historic center.
When to get there
The gallery is closed on the third Wednesday of the month, but open throughout the day the rest of the week. Visit around midday when the gallery is quiet to enjoy the collection virtually to yourself.
Highlights of the Doria Pamphilj Gallery
Some of the collection's most famous pieces include a portrait of Pope Innocent X by Velázquez and two busts of the same pope, created by Bernini. Giovanni Battista Pamphilj reigned as Pope Innocent X from 1644 to 1655, so in addition to portraits and busts in his honor, the palace has a papal Throne Room, an addition reserved for royal palaces or papal residences. The lavish Gallery of Mirrors is one of the most famous rooms in the palace and includes frescoes depicting the Labors of Hercules.
Ways to explore
The Doria Pamphilj Gallery holds one of Italy’s most prestigious private art collections—one you’ll want to explore with a guide. To breeze past the crowds and fully enjoy the palace’s history, book a private or small-group tour with skip-the-line admission. Tours offer a glimpse into the life of Roman nobility and typically visit the palace’s ballroom, chapel, and apartments. The gallery is also a highlight on tours of Caravaggio’s artworks in Rome. If you’re a music fan, opt for a private tour of the palace that includes a classical music concert or opera performance within the baroque halls.
Accessibility
Only parts of the gallery are wheelchair accessible—call ahead to arrange assistance for your visit.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bring what you can carry, as there’s no cloakroom.
What to wear
Wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing out of respect for the attraction’s historic nature.
Not allowed
Food and drink, selfie sticks, flash photography, non-service animals, bulky items, smoking, speaking loudly
Amenities
Audio guides, restrooms, bookshop, café
Address
Stationed along Rome’s bustling Via del Corso, the Doria Pamphilj Gallery is easy to reach on foot from the Pantheon, Vittorio Emanuele II Monument (Vittoriano), and other central attractions. You can also get there by car or public transportation.
Driving
You need a special permit to drive in Rome’s historical center, known for its heavy traffic. As a workaround, take a taxi or rideshare car to the Doria Pamphilj Gallery from anywhere in the city.
Public transportation
The gallery is located a short walk from Piazza Venezia, a transit hub served by the 8 tram from Trastevere and the 64 bus from Termini train station, among other routes.
Best times to visit
The Doria Pamphilj Gallery sells tickets for specific time slots, so arrive a few minutes before your scheduled entry time.
Best days to visit
The gallery limits the number of visitors every half hour, so crowds are manageable, regardless of the day you visit. It’s always closed on Wednesday.
Best months to visit
As one of Rome’s lesser-known attractions, the gallery is an excellent option year-round, especially in summer when it provides a respite from the city’s more crowded sights.
Special events
The Doria Pamphilj Gallery occasionally hosts ticketed events, such as operas and classical music concerts—check online for dates.
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