Rome’s Must-See Event of 2024: The Definitive Exhibition ‘From Borghese to Barberini

In an unprecedented cultural synergy, Rome is preparing to celebrate art through the temporary exhibition of 50 works by undisputed masters such as Raphael, Titian and Rubens. From 29 March to 30 June, visitors will have the unique opportunity to admire these treasures at Palazzo Barberini, in an initiative that aims to keep access to the artistic heritage alive during the modernization works of the Borghese Gallery.

The exhibition, entitled ‘From Renaissance art to Baroque art: moving masterpieces from Borghese to Barberini’, promises a journey through time, offering the public the opportunity to contemplate iconic works such as Antonello’s ‘Portrait of a Man’ from Messina, the tenderness of the ‘Madonna and Child’ by Giovanni Bellini, the enchantment of ‘Madonna with Child, Saint John and Angels’ by Sandro Botticelli, up to the mastery of ‘Portrait of a Young Woman with a Unicorn’ by Raphael, the intensity of ‘Susanna and the Elders’ by Peter Paul Rubens and the divine beauty of ‘Amor Sacro Amor Profano’ by Titian, as well as many others.

This exceptional transfer of works between the two galleries, which underlines the historical and cultural links between the Barberini and Borghese families, eminent in the Roman panorama of the seventeenth century, represents a rare opportunity for visitors.

Thomas Clement Salomon, director of the National Galleries of Ancient Art, and Francesca Cappelletti, director of the Borghese Gallery, underlined the significance of this initiative as a bridge between past and future, which allows the public to enjoy artistic beauties without interruptions, despite the significant restoration work underway for energy efficiency, widening accessibility and renovation of the interiors of the Borghese Gallery.

This exhibition not only celebrates the continuity of access to art in a time of renewal, but invites visitors to reflect on the transformation of cultural spaces and their importance to the community. An unmissable artistic and historical experience in the heart of Rome.