About Capitoline Museums
Founded in 1471 when Pope Sixtus IV donated bronzes to the people of Rome, the Capitoline is generally considered the oldest public museum in the world.
Founded in 1471, Capitoline Museums has been welcoming visitors for over 555 years. Today it draws approximately 700,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited archaeology & antiquity museums in the world. Located in Rome, Italy, the museum holds a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 16,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Capitoline Museums ranks #194
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. At #194 in our composite ranking, Capitoline Museums represents the kind of institution that rewards a deliberate visit — less visited than the mega-museums, but no less rewarding in what it offers. Key recognitions include: Oldest public museum.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 2.5 hours, planning your route through Capitoline Museums is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Capitoline Wolf
- ◆Marcus Aurelius equestrian
- ◆Dying Gaul
- ◆Tabularium views over the Forum
Recognition & awards
Capitoline Museums has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Daily 9:30–19:30.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2.5 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Capitoline Museums is located in Rome, Italy at coordinates 41.8932°N, 12.4827°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Capitoline Museums
Capitoline Museums was established in 1471, making it one of the oldest museums in the world. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Rome. With 700,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Italy's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important archaeology & antiquity museums in the Europe region.
Other top archaeology & antiquity museums
If you enjoy archaeology & antiquity museums like Capitoline Museums, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #10Acropolis MuseumAthens, Greece
- #23Egyptian MuseumCairo, Egypt
- #24Grand Egyptian MuseumGiza, Egypt
- #31Pergamon MuseumBerlin, Germany
- #32Israel MuseumJerusalem, Israel
More museums in Rome
Rome is home to 3 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Capitoline Museums with these nearby institutions:
- #80MAXXI – National Museum of 21st Century Arts🎨 Modern & Contemporary
- #195Villa Borghese (Galleria Borghese)🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Capitoline Museums?
Daily 9:30–19:30. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Capitoline Museums?
Most visitors recommend spending 2.5 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Capitoline Museums located?
Capitoline Museums is located in Rome, Italy. The exact coordinates are 41.8932°, 12.4827°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Capitoline Museums known for?
The world's oldest public museum. Key highlights include Capitoline Wolf, Marcus Aurelius equestrian, Dying Gaul. The museum holds a 4.7/5 rating from 16,000 reviews.
How many people visit Capitoline Museums each year?
Capitoline Museums receives approximately 700,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Italy.
When was Capitoline Museums founded?
Capitoline Museums was founded in 1471, making it 555 years old. It is categorised as a archaeology & antiquity museum in our directory.
