You’ll find so much more than just ancient ruins in Rome; the city offers incredible art and culture that feels remarkably modern. I was especially taken with the Zaha Hadid-designed Maxxi museum, Italy’s first national museum dedicated solely to 21st-century art. It’s this striking, winding structure of glass, steel, and concrete that really impresses, even before you step inside to see the art. Navigating through its bridges and ramps feels like an adventure in itself, a real contrast to the historical sites you’ll explore elsewhere.
Exploring Modern Artistry
Maxxi Museum Innovations
The Maxxi, opened in 2010, sits in the Flaminio neighbourhood, a testament to Rome’s commitment to contemporary creativity. Its permanent collection includes works from notable artists like Francesco Clemente, a painter from Naples, and the British sculptor Anish Kapoor. Recently, the museum received a significant boost with a donation of 58 pieces from the late Milanese art dealer Claudia Gian Ferrari, further enriching its offerings.
Macro’s Daring Spirit
Rome also boasts the Macro, a municipality-run contemporary art museum with two spaces. The main site on Via Nizza, which opened fairly recently, is housed in a former Peroni beer plant, masterfully reimagined by French architect Odile Decq. It’s designed to be a more dynamic and playful experience than the Maxxi. You can even find an archive dedicated to the postmodern painter Mario Schifano here. A fun detail are the lavatories with mirrored walls and flashing neon sinks, which really adds to the unexpected, daring feel of the place. Even the car park holds a piece of history, with remains of an ancient Roman house unearthed during its restoration.
Classical Sculptures and Roman History
Palazzo Altemps Treasures
Just a stone’s throw from Piazza Navona, Palazzo Altemps offers a different kind of artistic immersion. This Renaissance palace, once owned by an Austrian-born cardinal, is one of Rome’s quieter, less-trodden spots. Inside, you’ll discover a stunning collection of classical sculptures. Standouts include the Ludovisi Ares, a Roman interpretation of a Greek original, and the Ludovisi Gaul. But for pure artistry, the Grande Ludovisi sarcophagus, carved from a single block of stone depicting Romans battling Ostrogoths, is truly breathtaking. It’s a powerful example of Roman craftsmanship.
Ostia Antica Port City
If you’re considering a trip to Pompeii, I suggest you also look into Ostia Antica. It’s far less crowded and can be more of an insightful visit. Located not far from Rome and easily reached by train, Ostia Antica was the vital port city for the Roman Empire. Wandering through the pine-shaded ruins, you’ll see a well-preserved amphitheater still used for performances, along with remnants of ancient schools, baths, temples, and even some of the oldest latrines you’re likely to encounter. The mosaics and frescoes here are remarkably intact, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman daily life. It was fascinating to walk where so many Romans once lived and worked.
Cinematic History and Cultural Hubs
Cinecittà Studios Legacy
For a dive into cinema, Cinecittà Studios is a must-visit. Founded by Mussolini, this sprawling complex has a rich history, from its bombing in WWII to its boom in the 1950s, hosting the sets for epic films like “Ben-Hur” and “Cleopatra.” It’s also famously where Federico Fellini shot many of his iconic movies. While its peak days are past, it remains continental Europe’s largest film and TV production facility, having recently hosted parts of Martin Scorsese’s “Gangs of New York.” Guided tours are available for groups, which can offer a deeper look into the magic of filmmaking.
Auditorium Parco della Musica Centre
The Auditorium Parco della Musica is another landmark of Rome’s cultural revitalisation, designed by architect Renzo Piano. He described it as a “factory of culture.” This complex houses three concert halls for music, ballet, and theatre, alongside an impressive foyer that doubles as an exhibition space. You can also find the Cavea, an open-air theatre resembling a classical amphitheater, an art gallery, and even an archaeological museum displaying artifacts found during construction. I found the archaeological museum particularly interesting, seeing items like a 6th-century BC oil press.
Can you take a tour here?
Yes, guided tours are offered at the Auditorium Parco della Musica. It’s worth booking an English-language tour in advance if you’re interested in learning more about the venue and its history.
Churches and Artistic Illusions
Santa Maria in Trastevere Basilica
Among Rome’s earliest churches, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere offers a powerful sense of a grand medieval place of worship. Dating back to around 340 AD, it’s believed to be the first church in Rome dedicated to Mary. The nave is lined with ancient Roman columns, and the church was significantly rebuilt in the 12th century. The apse is adorned with exquisite mosaic panels by Pietro Cavallini, depicting scenes from Mary’s life, and these, along with a ceiling painting by Domenichino, give the basilica a truly radiant glow. It’s a peaceful space that feels steeped in history.
Sant’Ignazio Church Wonders
The church of Sant’Ignazio is a remarkable example of Baroque art and optical illusion. Built between 1626 and 1650, its most famous feature is Andrea Pozzo’s trompe l’oeil ceiling fresco. When viewed from a specific spot on the floor, it creates an astonishingly realistic vision of Ignatius of Loyola ascending to paradise. Pozzo also ingeniously created a canvas depiction of a dome, as funds ran out to build a real one, which, though replaced after being destroyed, still adds to the theatricality of the interior. It’s a clever display of artistic technique that truly captivates visitors.
What are the opening hours?
Sant’Ignazio is open daily from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm and again from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, allowing for plenty of opportunities to experience its unique artwork.
Trastevere’s Contemporary Art Scene
Galleria Lorcan O’Neill
For a taste of contemporary art with a British connection, Galleria Lorcan O’Neill in Trastevere is a unique spot. Opened in 2003, it brought a fresh, modern art presence to Rome, ahead of some other international galleries. Lorcan O’Neill has used his connections to exhibit artists like Tracey Emin and Rachel Whiteread, alongside respected international artists such as Anselm Kiefer, and also showcasing talented young Italians like Luigi Ontani. It’s a great place to see cutting-edge art in a more intimate setting, tucked away in a backstreet.
Is this gallery easy to find?
It’s located in a Trastevere backstreet, so while it’s part of the neighborhood’s character, it’s helpful to have the address handy. It’s a bit of a contrast to the grand museums, offering a more boutique art experience.
Museums of Ancient History
Museo Nazionale dell’Alto Medioevo
In the EUR district, often known for its Fascist architecture, you’ll find the Museo Nazionale dell’Alto Medioevo, a museum dedicated to the early medieval period. It’s less visited but holds fascinating evidence that this post-Roman era wasn’t as “dark” as it’s sometimes portrayed. You can see beautifully decorated weapons, intricate tapestries, and exquisite jewelry. One of its most striking exhibits is an entire hall featuring an aristocratic villa’s interior from Ostia, decorated with the technique of opus sectile, where colored marble is cut and inlaid to create stunning designs, including dynamic scenes of tigers and lions. It’s a surprisingly rich collection that challenges perceptions of the era.
What makes this museum special?
Its focus on the early medieval period is unusual, and the display of opuse sectile art offers a unique visual experience. It truly showcases artistry and craftsmanship from a less commonly highlighted historical period.
Rome has an incredible ability to surprise you with its blend of the ancient and the modern, offering something for every interest and every moment you’re there.