Rating
4.5/5 (based on Google user reviews)
User Reviews
Camilo A. Posada (6 months ago)
Palazzo Farnese stands as one of the most remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture in Rome, embodying the wealth, power, and cultural legacy of the Farnese family. Designed in the 16th century, its construction was initiated in 1517 under Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, who later became Pope Paul III. The building reflects a collaboration of some of the most prominent architects of the era, including Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, and Giacomo della Porta. This majestic palace, located near Campo de’ Fiori, is renowned for its grand proportions and elegant design. The rusticated ground floor gives it an imposing presence, while the upper levels are characterized by smooth ashlar masonry, perfectly symmetrical windows, and a central cornice designed by Michelangelo himself. The enormous Farnese coat of arms with lilies crowns the façade, a clear display of the family’s ambition and influence during the height of the Renaissance. Inside, the palace boasts exquisite frescoes, such as the Gallery of Hercules painted by Annibale Carracci, which is celebrated for its mythological themes and masterful use of perspective. The building’s interiors reflect the grandeur and refinement associated with one of Italy’s most powerful noble families. The Farnese family, originally from Lazio, rose to prominence in the 15th and 16th centuries, thanks to strategic alliances, ecclesiastical power, and their patronage of the arts. Pope Paul III, the family’s most famous member, commissioned the palace as a symbol of their prestige. The family’s influence extended across Europe, particularly during the Counter-Reformation, and their legacy is still deeply intertwined with Italian cultural history. Today, Palazzo Farnese serves as the French Embassy, a testament to its continued significance as a seat of diplomacy and culture. Its austere elegance and timeless beauty make it an essential landmark for visitors exploring the artistic and historical treasures of Rome.
Palazzo Farnese stands as one of the most remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture in Rome, embodying the wealth, power, and cultural legacy of the Farnese family. Designed in the 16th century, its construction was initiated in 1517 under Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, who later became Pope Paul III. The building reflects a collaboration of some of the most prominent architects of the era, including Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, and Giacomo della Porta. This majestic palace, located near Campo de’ Fiori, is renowned for its grand proportions and elegant design. The rusticated ground floor gives it an imposing presence, while the upper levels are characterized by smooth ashlar masonry, perfectly symmetrical windows, and a central cornice designed by Michelangelo himself. The enormous Farnese coat of arms with lilies crowns the façade, a clear display of the family’s ambition and influence during the height of the Renaissance. Inside, the palace boasts exquisite frescoes, such as the Gallery of Hercules painted by Annibale Carracci, which is celebrated for its mythological themes and masterful use of perspective. The building’s interiors reflect the grandeur and refinement associated with one of Italy’s most powerful noble families. The Farnese family, originally from Lazio, rose to prominence in the 15th and 16th centuries, thanks to strategic alliances, ecclesiastical power, and their patronage of the arts. Pope Paul III, the family’s most famous member, commissioned the palace as a symbol of their prestige. The family’s influence extended across Europe, particularly during the Counter-Reformation, and their legacy is still deeply intertwined with Italian cultural history. Today, Palazzo Farnese serves as the French Embassy, a testament to its continued significance as a seat of diplomacy and culture. Its austere elegance and timeless beauty make it an essential landmark for visitors exploring the artistic and historical treasures of Rome.
Luciano Carvalho (7 months ago)
The Palazzo Farnese, located in Rome, is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and currently houses the French Embassy. Its elegant facade, attributed to Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and Michelangelo, showcases grand symmetry and classic lines. Visitors admire its intricately decorated courtyard and frescoed interiors (when open to the public). The building’s imposing structure and historical significance make it a highlight of Roman architectural heritage.
The Palazzo Farnese, located in Rome, is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and currently houses the French Embassy. Its elegant facade, attributed to Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and Michelangelo, showcases grand symmetry and classic lines. Visitors admire its intricately decorated courtyard and frescoed interiors (when open to the public). The building’s imposing structure and historical significance make it a highlight of Roman architectural heritage.
Abla Benhammouche (2 years ago)
Fantastic palazzo housing the French Embassy in Rome. I was imvited to celebrate the centenary of the association of the French in Rome Wonderful evening
Fantastic palazzo housing the French Embassy in Rome. I was imvited to celebrate the centenary of the association of the French in Rome Wonderful evening
Maarten Hofman (2 years ago)
Unfortunately you can't take pictures here, which is disappointing, because it also means that the various things the guide points out get lost in your mind (she mentioned a particular town to visit, and I can't remember it anymore). The actual tour is quite nice, though, with a very strong theme (in my case it was Hercules) which I liked. You have to book things in advance, because there is also a security check. Also make sure to take your passport with you.
Unfortunately you can't take pictures here, which is disappointing, because it also means that the various things the guide points out get lost in your mind (she mentioned a particular town to visit, and I can't remember it anymore). The actual tour is quite nice, though, with a very strong theme (in my case it was Hercules) which I liked. You have to book things in advance, because there is also a security check. Also make sure to take your passport with you.
Anna Shlimovich (2 years ago)
An outstanding edifice epitomising the work of great architects and artists of the glorious past. The site of the aria Vissi d'arte (Tosca by Puccini) and presently by the French Embassy. While its splendid architecture can be admired by all from the outside, you need to get a ticket booked in advance with your passport to see the inside. The main reason to go through this hassle (no backpacks allowed, airport-like checks, and it's currently 12 euros) is to see the great fresco by Annibale Carracci. If you love art, it's a must. The guided tour now changed from 3 years ago, they do not take you to the upper floor loggia with a view. But the Caracci fresco is included as before. The guided tour takes an hour. There is a bathroom inside available only in courtyard. No bags allowed except for purses. Arrive 30 minutes prior to go through all the checks. Bring your own passport!
An outstanding edifice epitomising the work of great architects and artists of the glorious past. The site of the aria Vissi d'arte (Tosca by Puccini) and presently by the French Embassy. While its splendid architecture can be admired by all from the outside, you need to get a ticket booked in advance with your passport to see the inside. The main reason to go through this hassle (no backpacks allowed, airport-like checks, and it's currently 12 euros) is to see the great fresco by Annibale Carracci. If you love art, it's a must. The guided tour now changed from 3 years ago, they do not take you to the upper floor loggia with a view. But the Caracci fresco is included as before. The guided tour takes an hour. There is a bathroom inside available only in courtyard. No bags allowed except for purses. Arrive 30 minutes prior to go through all the checks. Bring your own passport!
