Museo Nazionale Romano, Palazzo Altemps

★ 4.6 (3,502)$$ · Mid-range

One of the four National Roman Museum sites, Palazzo Altemps combines an intact 16th-century noble residence with the Ludovisi family's celebrated collection of classical sculpture, including the renowned Ludovisi Throne. Despite sitting just steps from Piazza Navona, it's overlooked by the crowds pouring through the square outside, and reviewers repeatedly call it a hidden gem for exactly that reason. Its high hidden-gem score alongside a maximum culture rating captures the paradox precisely - a world-class collection that most visitors walk right past. Frescoed courtyards and skillful use of natural light make the building itself as memorable as the sculpture within.

✨ Reasons to go

1Houses the Ludovisi Throne, one of the most significant surviving pieces of classical sculpture in the Ludovisi collection.
2The building is a preserved 16th-century noble residence with frescoed courtyards, part of the display alongside the sculptures.
3One of four sites making up the National Roman Museum, located just steps from Piazza Navona yet largely bypassed by its crowds.

💡 Good to know

1Combine with the other National Roman Museum sites on a single ticket if available
2visit in the morning for the quietest galleries
3look for the Ludovisi Throne, one of the collection's most significant pieces.

⏱️ Typical visit

1h15

🕰️ Best time

morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening

🚶 Walking intensity

Moderate walking

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Address

Piazza di Sant'Apollinare, 46, 00186 Roma RM, Italy · RomaGoogle Apple

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Booking

Booking recommended

What people say

"Palazzo Altemps is absolutely a hidden gem. The museum is stunningly beautiful, especially the way it uses light and shadow throughout the space. The exhibition design feels incredibly refined and thoughtful. For around 15 euros, the ticket gives access to four museums, and Palazzo Altemps is just one of them, which makes it an amazing value. I honestly enjoyed it far more than I expected. That said, I can also understand why most tourists probably would not come here. It is quieter, slower, and more focused on atmosphere and sculpture than on big iconic landmarks. But if that is your kind of thing, this place is fantastic."

— Asuka Langley Soryu

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