RomaPolacchi

On the edge of the Borghese Gardens is the former residence of Pope Julius III. Built in the 16 th century, the palace was decorated by the most famous artists of the day, most notably Georgio Vasari and Michaelangelo Buonarroti . Today the palace, now known as the Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia , houses the most extensive collection of Etruscan artifacts in Rome and includes famous works such as the Apollo from Veii and the Bride and Groom from Cerveteri . Be sure to visit the extraordinary collection of Etruscan gold and jewelry on the second floor. In addition, the first floor Portico painted by Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola must not be missed. The museum is closed Mondays.

The Capitoline Museum , located on the Campidoglio, a piazza designed by Michelangelo and the site of the religious center of ancient Rome, was revonovated in the first years of the 21st century. The recent renovation has revealed the foundations of the Roman temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus and has provided access to one of the most spectacular views of the Roman Forum. The original equestrian bronze statue of the emperor Marcus Aurelius is now housed in its own air-conditioned gallery, which protects the delicate bronze from decomposition-and makes the gallery a welcome spot for the weary summer tourist! A copy of the bronze Marcus Aurelius is on display outside in the center of the piazza. Don't forget to visit the fragments of the colossal statue of the emperor Constantine located in the courtyard of the Palazzo dei Conservatori and the famous Capitoline Wolf, the ubiquitous symbol of Rome. Capitoline Museum