The Barracco Museum: Rome’s Hidden Treasure of Ancient Sculpture

Explore a World of Ancient Art and Uncover a Secret Underground "Surprise"

Hello everyone! Today, I want to share with you a true treasure for lovers of ancient sculpture: the Barracco Museum of Ancient Sculpture in Rome. This museum is part of the network of municipal museums in Rome, which are free to visit on the first Sunday of every month. If you have a passion for ancient art, this is definitely a place you’ll want to explore.

The Barracco Museum, also known as the Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco, is named after its founder, the Italian archaeologist and collector Giovanni Barracco. Established in 1902, the museum was born out of Barracco's personal collection, which he generously donated to the city of Rome. The collection is housed in the beautiful Renaissance-style Palazzo Farnesina ai Baullari, located near Campo de' Fiori.

Inside the museum, you’ll find an impressive collection of ancient sculptures from various cultures, including Egyptian, Assyrian, Cypriot, Phoenician, Greek, and Roman art. The pieces are carefully curated to showcase the evolution of sculpture across different civilizations, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the history of ancient art.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Barracco Museum is its hidden underground section. From within the museum, you can access a subterranean area where the remains of a Roman-imperial era building have been preserved.

This ancient structure, buried for nearly 2,000 years, was discovered by chance at the end of the 19th century during construction work. The underground space offers a unique glimpse into Rome’s layered history, allowing you to walk through a piece of the city’s past that has been hidden for millennia.

The Barracco Museum is conveniently located in the heart of Rome, just a short walk from Campo de' Fiori. Here’s how to find it: from Campo de' Fiori, head north on Via dei Baullari. The museum is located at Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 166/A.

Before you visit, be sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours. The museum’s central location makes it an easy addition to your itinerary as you explore the historic center of Rome.

Happy exploring!

And as always, if you want to use any of the photos from my visit, please remember to give credit to the author.