Galleria Doria Pamphilj (Doria Pamphilj Gallery), Rome

Galleria Doria Pamphilj (Doria Pamphilj Gallery), Rome (must see)

The Doria Pamphilj Palace boasts one of the largest private art collections in Rome, a remarkable achievement considering the city's renowned artistic heritage. Constructed in 1505 by a Catholic cardinal, the palace later came under the ownership of another cardinal whose niece, in turn, married Camillo Pamphilj, nephew of Pope Innocent X.

The palace's stately rooms feature vaulted ceilings and exquisite decorations, showcasing a vast array of Medieval and Byzantine art. One wing houses the Aldobrandini Gallery, which displays an eclectic mix of paintings and garden statues. In an adjoining chamber, you'll find a portrait of Pope Innocent X painted by Velazquez. The Gallery of Mirrors, inspired by the room of the same name in Versailles, is adorned with mirrors imported from France, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. The intricately intertwined ceiling fresco, depicting the Labors of Hercules, incorporates the Pamphilj family tree, alluding to their supposed connection to the legendary Greek hero. Meanwhile, the Primitives Room exhibits paintings executed on wooden panels.

Unlike other popular landmarks in Rome, the Doria Pamphilj Palace doesn't tend to get overly crowded, providing a serene and enjoyable experience at your own pace. There's no need to purchase a guided tour as a free audio guide is available, offering informative commentary that greatly enriches your visit. Each room and selected exhibits are numbered to correspond with the audio guide. In addition to the art collection, visitors can take pleasure in the delightful cafeteria and tea room, as well as peruse the bookshop.

Why You Should Visit:
While the Vatican Museums hold global fame and are highly popular, this impressive palace offers one of the most captivating and rewarding experiences in the city.

Tip:
For personal use (non-commercial), you can acquire a 'Photo Pass' from the bookshop, allowing you to capture memories of your visit.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rome. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Galleria Doria Pamphilj (Doria Pamphilj Gallery) on Map

Sight Name: Galleria Doria Pamphilj (Doria Pamphilj Gallery)
Sight Location: Rome, Italy (See walking tours in Rome)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Rome, Italy

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Palatine Hill Walking Tour

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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
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Tour Duration: 4 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 9.0 Km or 5.6 Miles
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Legend has it that Rome was founded in 753 BC by twin brothers Romulus and Remus who were raised by a she-wolf. However, the pair argued about who had the support of the gods, and Romulus ended up killing Remus in a fight on what became Palatine Hill. Thus, Romulus named the city after himself and declared himself as king.

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
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Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles

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