A Guide to Rome’s Free Museums

The city of Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world and is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse culture. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, there is no shortage of sights to see in this beautiful city. But what many visitors don’t know is that there are a number of museums in Rome that are free to visit. This guide will provide an overview of some of Rome’s most popular free museums, as well as two popular tours that let visitors explore the city’s hidden gems.

History of Rome

The earliest known settlements in Rome date back to around 1000 BC, when the area was home to small villages of the Latin people. By the 6th century BC, Rome had grown into a major power and was known for its impressive monuments, such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon. Over the following centuries, Rome would become a centre for art and culture, and by the 19th century it had become one of Europe’s most influential cities. Today, Rome is the capital of Italy and is home to over 2.8 million people. It is also known for its iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain and St. Peter’s Basilica, which attract millions of visitors every year.

Popular Attractions in Rome

Rome is well-known for its beautiful architecture and ancient ruins. The Colosseum is perhaps the city’s most iconic attraction and dates back to 80AD. The Colosseum was once used for gladiator fights, but now serves as a symbol of Rome’s rich history. Another popular attraction is the Trevi Fountain, which is the largest fountain in Rome and is renowned for its stunning baroque architecture. Visitors can also explore the Pantheon, which was built in 126AD and is now a popular tourist destination.

In addition to its many monuments and landmarks, Rome is also home to a number of museums. Some of these museums are free to visit, making them a great way to explore the city on a budget. Here are some of Rome’s most popular free museums:

Museo Nazionale Romano

The Museo Nazionale Romano (National Roman Museum) is one of the most popular museums in Rome and is located in the city’s historic centre. The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts from ancient Rome, including sculptures, mosaics, coins, jewellery, and pottery. Visitors can also explore the museum’s collection of frescoes, which date back to the 4th century BC. The museum is free to visit on Sundays, while on other days there is an admission fee of 10 euros.

Galleria Borghese

The Galleria Borghese is a stunning gallery that houses an impressive collection of Italian art from the 16th to 18th centuries. The museum features works from renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini and Raphael. Visitors can also explore the gallery’s sculpture garden, which features masterpieces such as Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. The museum is free to visit on Thursdays and Sundays, while on other days there is an admission fee of 10 euros.

Museo delle Mura

The Museo delle Mura (Museum of the Walls) is located in Rome’s historical centre and offers visitors a unique insight into Rome’s past. The museum houses a collection of artefacts from ancient Rome, including sculptures, mosaics, coins and pottery. Visitors can also explore the museum’s interactive exhibits that tell the story of Rome’s history from its founding in 753BC to its present day. The museum is open every day from 9am to 6pm and admission is free.

Museo di Roma in Trastevere

The Museo di Roma in Trastevere (Museum of Rome in Trastevere) is located in the heart of one of Rome’s oldest neighbourhoods. The museum houses a collection of artefacts from ancient Rome, including sculptures, mosaics, coins and pottery. Visitors can also explore the museum’s interactive exhibits that tell the story of Trastevere’s history from its founding in 753BC to its present day. The museum is open every day from 9am to 6pm and admission is free.

Explore Ancient Rome Tour

For those looking to explore more of Rome’s ancient sites, this 3-hour tour offers an in-depth look at some of the city’s most iconic monuments. The tour begins with a guided walk through the Colosseum and its grounds before continuing on to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and other sites of ancient Rome such as the Arch of Titus and Trajan’s Column. Visitors will get an up-close look at these sites as well as learn about their history from an expert guide. Book an Explore Ancient Rome Tour here.

Secret Treasures Tour

This 2-hour tour takes visitors off the beaten path to explore some of Rome’s hidden gems. The tour starts with a guided walk through Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest neighbourhoods before continuing on to other lesser-known sites such as Piazza Navona, Campo dei Fiori and Piazza Farnese. Visitors will get an intimate look at these sites as well as learn about their history from an expert guide. Book a Secret Treasures Tour here.

Conclusion

Rome is one of the world’s most beautiful cities and has plenty to offer visitors on a budget. Not only can visitors explore some of Rome’s most iconic monuments such as the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain for free, but there are also a number of free museums where they can learn more about Rome’s rich history and culture. In addition to exploring these sites on their own, visitors can also join one of two popular tours – Explore Ancient Rome Tour or Secret Treasures Tour – to get an in-depth look at some of Rome’s most fascinating attractions. Whether you’re looking for a free day out or a more detailed exploration of the city’s hidden gems, you’ll find plenty to do in this amazing city!