The Roman Empire museum and Roman Forum tour

Welcome to the world’s first museum! The Roman Empire Museum has a fascinating collection of art and artifacts that tell the fascinating story of Rome. In 1734 Pope Clementine XII decided to put together a significant collection of artwork and ancient sculptures that would remain permanently accessible to the people of Rome. With this magnanimous act, he created the world's first museum, located on the top of one of the Seven Hills of Rome, overlooking the Ancient Roman Forum. Enter the museum and discover Rome's long and complex history: you'll admire paintings by Caravaggio and other masters, you'll discover the famous she-wolf sculpture featuring Rome's founders Romulus and Remus, and you'll see a treasure chest of items that tell the story of Rome, the ancient Caput Mundi. Your professional guide will tell you how the construction on Capitoline Hill began, and how Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Paul III to design the square. You'll then continue the visit on your own.