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Exhibitions at Borghese Gallery | Current, upcoming & past shows

Often referred to as the “Eternal City”, Rome is a hub of culture, art, architecture, and food. This city is rich with the imprints of a colorful past, characterized by iconic monuments and world-renowned works of art. The Borghese Gallery remains one of the premier museums of art and sculpture, with works by artists such as Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.

Borghese Gallery
  • Exclusive exhibitions: Enjoy the unique opportunity of viewing works of art that are not part of the permanent collection. Temporary exhibitions often offer educational and interactive elements, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
  • Intimate setting: The gallery's limited entry ensures an intimate experience, allowing for a closer connection with masterpieces.
  • Iconic artworks: Witness extraordinary sculptures by Bernini and striking paintings by Caravaggio, offering a profound encounter with art history.
  • Cultural treasure trove: Explore a curated collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque art, immersing in a cultural journey through time.
  • Expert guided tours: Consider guided tours for in-depth insights, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the artworks and their historical context.

Current shows

Dosso Dossi

Pygmalion's touch. Rubens and sculpture in Rome

Date: 14 November, 2023 – 18 February, 2024
Curated by: Francesca Cappelletti and Lucia Simonato
Guided tours: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 5:10 pm in Italian and English, costing €8.
Family activity: "Seen Closely" - Interactive tour between Rubens and Bernini every Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 pm, costing €5 per child and accompanying adult.

Highlights:

  • Explore "Pygmalion's Touch: Rubens and Sculpture in Rome," part of the broader project "RUBENS! The Birth of a European Painting."
  • Over 50 works from prestigious museums worldwide, showcasing Rubens' contribution on the cusp of the Baroque.
  • Eight sections, emphasizing Rubens' innovative style and exploration of ancient and Renaissance models.
  • Witness Rubens' unique process of vivifying subjects, breathing life into marbles and paintings.

Dosso Dossi: The Frieze of Aeneas

Date: 4 April - 11 June, 2023
Curated by: Marina Minozzi

  • Exclusive display of Dosso Dossi's five canvases from the 16th-century frieze.First-time collaboration with Louvre Abu Dhabi, National Gallery of Art (Washington DC), and Prado Museum (Madrid).
  • Bold depiction of scenes from Aeneas' journey and the founding of cities. Exploration of Dosso Dossi's imaginative compositions and 16th-century Ferrara's artistic environment.
  • Illumination of the controversial relationship between Bernini's masterpieces and Rubensian naturalism.

Giuseppe Penone: Universal Gesti

Date: 14 March - 28 May, 2023 (Extended to July 9, 2023)
Curated by: Francesco Stocchi

  • Exhibition featuring over thirty works spanning from the 1970s to the early 2000s. Integration of organic materials in Penone's sculptures, creating a dialogue with classical statuary.
  • Bronze sculptures interacting with the surrounding vegetation in the Gardens. Exploration of Penone's theme of the proximity between human and vegetal nature.
  • Reflection on language, time, and history through the artist's transversal and subjective gaze.



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Visitor tips

  • Book your tickets in advance, especially for popular exhibitions, to avoid long lines and ensure entry during your preferred time slot.
  • Consider a private guided tour. While it may incur additional costs, it provides an in-depth understanding of the artworks and allows you to bypass crowds.
  • If you're on a family trip, explore educational activities. The "Seen Closely" tour, for instance, can engage young minds and add an interactive dimension to the visit.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the beautiful Villa Borghese Gardens. It's a serene complement to the art and offers a unique perspective on the gallery's surroundings.
  • Admission comes with a time limit. Respect it, but make the most of your time. Prioritize must-see artworks and plan your route efficiently.
  • To enjoy a quieter experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. This can provide a more intimate setting to appreciate the artworks.
  • Stay informed about temporary exhibitions, as they may feature unique artworks not part of the permanent collection. These exhibitions often provide a fresh perspective on the artist or a specific theme.
  • Be mindful of other visitors by maintaining a reasonable distance from artworks, refraining from loud conversations, and following any specific guidelines provided by the gallery staff.
What exhibitions are currently showing at the Borghese Gallery in Rome?

The current exhibition at the Borghese Gallery is "Pygmalion's Touch: Rubens and Sculpture in Rome," running from November 14, 2023, to February 18, 2024. Curated by Francesca Cappelletti and Lucia Simonato, the exhibition showcases over 50 works from renowned museums worldwide, exploring Peter Paul Rubens' transformative impact on the conception of the ancient, natural, and imitation. It delves into Rubens' style, his study of ancient models, and the intriguing relationship between his naturalism and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's masterpieces, offering a unique perspective on the artistic dynamics of 17th-century Rome.

Do I need to buy separate tickets to view the various exhibitions at Borghese Gallery?

No, you do not need to purchase separate tickets to view the various exhibitions housed within the Borghese Gallery. They are all included within your entry ticket which grants you access to all 20 rooms and 2 floors of the Borghese Gallery.

When and where can I view the Borghese Gallery exhibitions?

The exhibitions can be viewed during regular opening hours of the Borghese Gallery, which is located at Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5, 00197 Rome, Italy.

How do I view the Borghese Gallery exhibitions?

Visitors can view the exhibitions by purchasing a regular admission ticket to the Borghese Gallery and following the designated exhibition route.

How many exhibitions are held at Borghese Gallery annually?

The Borghese Gallery often opens its doors to temporary exhibitions every year from up-and-coming artists as well as novel creations of the fashion world. The number of exhibitions varies from year to year, but roughly 2-3 such exhibitions are held each year.

When did Borghese Gallery host its first exhibition?

The Borghese Gallery hosted its first exhibition in 2007.

Are there guided tours available for exhibitions?

Yes, guided tours are often available for exhibitions at the Borghese Gallery. You have the opportunity to join guided tours conducted by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the artworks, the artists, and the historical context of the exhibitions. These tours enhance the overall experience and understanding of the artworks on display.

Is there an additional cost for educational activities related to exhibitions?

Yes, there may be additional costs for educational activities related to exhibitions at the Borghese Gallery. For example, the "Seen Closely" interactive tour between Rubens and Bernini, designed for families, takes place every Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 pm and costs €5 per child and accompanying adult. It's essential to check the specific details and associated costs for each educational activity, as they may vary.