Colonna Gallery: Tickets

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Colonna Gallery FAQs

• What is the Colonna Gallery?
• The Colonna Gallery (Galleria Colonna) is a private art gallery in the heart of Rome in the Palazzo Colonna, which is a magnificent 14th-century palace.
• Who owns the Colonna Gallery?
• The gallery is still owned and managed by the Colonna family, who are one of the oldest and most prominent aristocratic families in Italy.
• What type of art is displayed in the Colonna Gallery?
• The gallery primarily features Baroque masterpieces, including works by renowned artists such as Guido Reni, Annibale Carracci, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
• How old is the Colonna Gallery?
• The gallery dates back to the 17th century and has been open to the public since the 18th century.
• Is the Colonna Gallery open to the public?
  Yes, it is open to visitors, but only on specific days and times, usually on Saturday mornings. Click HERE for ticket options.
• What are the opening hours of the Colonna Gallery?
• The Colonna Gallery opens from 9:00 AM to 1:15 PM on Saturdays only.
• Do you need a reservation to visit the Colonna Gallery?
• While walk-ins may be possible, reservations are highly recommended, as the gallery is only open for a few hours one day per week, so usually fully booked with reservations. Click HERE for ticket options.
• What is the Sala Grande in the Colonna Gallery?
• The Sala Grande, or Great Hall, is one of the gallery’s highlights, known for its grandeur and intricate frescoes which depict historical events tied to the Colonna family.
• What is unique about the Colonna Gallery in Rome?
• The Colonna Gallery is one of the few privately-owned palaces in Rome that is open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the grandeur of Italian aristocracy and Baroque art.

The Colonna Gallery Fun Facts

• Historic Victory Celebration: The gallery was built to celebrate the Colonna family’s naval victory at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
• A Filmmaker’s Dream: The Colonna Gallery served as a filming location for movies, including Roman Holiday, which starred Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck!
• Lavish Frescoes: The ceilings of the gallery are covered with frescoes by top Baroque artists and illustrate scenes from classical mythology and family triumphs.
• Massive Chandeliers: The gallery features enormous crystal chandeliers that add to its opulent atmosphere.
• Enduring Legacy: The Colonna family has maintained ownership of the palace for over 800 years which makes it one of Europe’s longest-held aristocratic properties!
• Napoleonic Loot: Some artworks were temporarily lost during the Napoleonic Wars but were later returned to the gallery.
• The Colonna Gardens: The palace includes beautiful terraced gardens with panoramic views of Rome which are accessible during special events.
• War Damage: The palace suffered significant damage during World War II but was carefully restored to its former glory.
• Rare Sculptures: The gallery also displays exquisite sculptures, including ancient Roman busts and Renaissance pieces.
• The Family: The Colonna family has played a significant role in Italian history and politics, and the gallery reflects their long-standing cultural and artistic patronage.
• Napoleon: During the French occupation of Rome in the early 19th century, Napoleon used the Palazzo Colonna as his residence.
• Library: The palace houses a valuable library that contains rare manuscripts, books, and documents.
• ‍Family Chapel: The Colonna family chapel which is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Tolentino, is within the palace and is covered with more impressive artworks.