Palazzo Borghese

Welcome to the Palazzo Borghese, one of the most magnificent private residences in Rome and a powerful symbol of the Borghese family’s ascent during the 17th century. Often referred to by Romans as 'il Cembalo'—the…

To understand the Palazzo Borghese, one must understand the man who shaped its greatest era: Cardinal Scipione Borghese. As the favorite nephew of Pope Paul V, Scipione wielded enormous influence and commanded vast financial…

The unique shape of the Palazzo Borghese is one of the most distinctive features of the Roman cityscape. The narrow, tapering end of the building, which points toward the Tiber, gave rise to the nickname 'il Cembalo' or 'the…

One of the true highlights of the Palazzo Borghese is its spectacular internal courtyard, often cited as one of the most beautiful in Rome. Known as the 'Courtyard of the Hundred Columns,' it features a grand, double-tiered…

Beyond the monumental courtyard lies one of the palace’s most enchanting features: the Nymphaeum and the secret garden. This area represents the family’s desire to bring the 'vigna' or villa experience into the heart of the city. …

The history of the Palazzo Borghese is also marked by its connection to the Napoleonic era, a period that brought significant change to the family and its collection. In the early 19th century, Prince Camillo Borghese married…

While the world-famous paintings and sculptures of the Borghese collection are now primarily housed in the Galleria Borghese, the Palazzo Borghese was the original context for much of this art. For centuries, the rooms of this…

As we conclude our visit to the Palazzo Borghese, we leave with a profound sense of the urban presence and the enduring influence of the Borghese family. This palace is not just a building; it is a physical narrative of papal…