Palazzo Farnese

Rome, Italy

Palazzo Farnese is one of the most important High Renaissance palaces in Rome. Owned by the Italian Republic, it was given to the French government in 1936 for a period of 99 years, and currently serves as the French embassy in Italy.

First designed in 1517 for the Farnese family, the building expanded in size and conception when Alessandro Farnese became Pope Paul III in 1534, to designs by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger. Its building history involved some of the most prominent Italian architects of the 16th century, including Michelangelo, Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola and Giacomo della Porta.

At the end of the 16th century, the important fresco cycle of The Loves of the Gods in the Farnese Gallery was carried out by the Bolognese painter Annibale Carracci, marking the beginning of two divergent trends in painting during the 17th century, the Roman High Baroque and Classicism. The famous Farnese sculpture collection, now in the National Archeological Museum of Naples, as well as other Farnese collections, now mostly in Capodimonte Museum in Naples, were accommodated in the palace.

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Details

Founded: 1514-1534
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Italy

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Maarten Hofman (17 months 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.
Anna Shlimovich (18 months 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!
Michael (2 years ago)
The history of this place is cool - belonging to one of the riches families in Italy. The outside is not too pretty with all the security and screens. I understand this is because it’s also the French embassy.
Catherine Béjot-Edmond (2 years ago)
A museum of classic sculptures and original frescoes at Campo di Fiori, very close to piazza Navona...currently home of the French embassy and residence... magnifique!
Carlos Sarasola Orio (2 years ago)
One of the most significant of the historic Roman palaces, with contributions from Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane and Michelangelo. Once it use to hold the important “Farnese collection”, now in Naples. Now is famous for it’s beautiful restraint renaissance architecture and the remarkable “Galleria Farnese” with the frescoes of the Carracci brothers. Now France’s Embassy, It’s possible to visit booking a guided tour well in advance.
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