This spring, art enthusiasts in Rome will have a unique opportunity to witness the merging of two priceless art collections as Palazzo Barberini hosts 50 masterpieces from Galleria Borghese. The exhibition, titled “Raphael, Titian and Rubens,” will run from March 29 to June 30 at the National Galleries of Ancient Art in Palazzo Barberini, while Galleria Borghese undergoes major renovation works in its Pinacoteca.
The collaboration between the two galleries is unprecedented and will allow visitors to continue admiring the celebrated paintings from Galleria Borghese even during the renovation period. The works on display at Palazzo Barberini will include masterpieces such as Antonello da Messina’s “Portrait of a Man,” Giovanni Bellini’s “Madonna and Child,” Sandro Botticelli’s “Madonna and Child with St John and Angels,” Raphael’s “Portrait of a Young Woman with a Unicorn,” Peter Paul Rubens’ “Susanna and the Elders,” Titian’s “Sacred and Profane Love,” and Paolo Veronese’s “St John the Baptist Preaching.”
The collections of Palazzo Barberini and Galleria Borghese share a similar history, linked to two influential figures from Roman political and cultural life in the 17th century: Maffeo Barberini and Scipione Borghese. Thomas Clement Salomon, the newly appointed director of Palazzo Barberini, believes that these historical figures “would have rejoiced” at the joint initiative.
Francesca Cappelletti, director of Galleria Borghese, emphasized that despite the renovation works, the gallery will remain open to visitors, thanks to an exceptional effort. The renovation project, financed by Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), will involve the replacement of upholstery, modernization of fixtures for energy efficiency, expansion of cultural accessibility, updating of storerooms, and restoration of some large canvases.
During the renovation period, Galleria Borghese will offer reduced ticket prices, and visitors will also be able to purchase discounted tickets for Palazzo Barberini. This collaboration ensures that art lovers can continue to enjoy these masterpieces while the necessary improvements are made to Galleria Borghese.
