Palatine Museum

Rooms I to III of the Palatine Museum house some of the most exquisite artifacts and artworks that were discovered during the excavations of the Palatine Hill. Room I, known as the Hall of the Emperors, displays busts of Roman emperors, including Julius Caesar and Augustus. Room II, called the Loggia of Psyche, contains frescoes of the myth of Cupid and Psyche, which are considered to be some of the best examples of Roman painting. Room III, the Hall of the Griffins, exhibits beautiful mosaic floors and a statue of a winged griffin. Visitors can also see fragments of ancient wall paintings and stuccoes that adorned the walls and ceilings of the imperial palaces on the Palatine Hill. These rooms offer a fascinating insight into the opulence and grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Also Read: Architecture Of Colosseum

In Room IV, you'll encounter ancient treasures dating back to the Archaic and Republican eras. Notably, an altar from the Silla period stands, intriguingly dedicated "to a god or goddess," veiling their true identity from enemies. Additionally, this room proudly displays various antefixes made of polychrome terracotta, portraying revered deities like Jupiter, Apollo, and Juno Sospita from different historical periods. Delve into the rich history and artistry of these artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and culture of ancient times.

Must Read: Domus Aurea

Room V in the Palatine Museum Collection showcases various artifacts from the Roman Republic and early Empire. One of the highlights of this room is the mosaic of a dog attacking a wild boar, which dates back to the 2nd century BCE. The room also features a number of sculptures, including busts of the Roman emperors Augustus, Tiberius, and Claudius, as well as a statue of the goddess Fortuna. Additionally, there are several examples of Roman pottery on display, including vases and urns, as well as other household objects such as lamps and oil containers. The collection in Room V provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and culture of ancient Rome, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Roman history and archaeology.

Recommended Read: Rooftop Restaurants Around Colosseum

Room VI of the palatine museum on palatine hill is dedicated to the “House of Augustus,” the residence of the first Roman Emperor Augustus. The room displays various finds from the residence, including frescoes, fragments of sculptures, and decorations from the villa's garden. One of the most impressive exhibits in this room is the reconstruction of the imperial bed, consisting of a wooden frame with bronze legs and intricate decorations. The room also showcases a replica of the famous statue of Augustus found in the Prima Porta villa, depicting him as a military leader. Visitors can also see the inscription on the wall detailing the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, the emperor’s autobiography. The exhibit highlights the grandeur of Augustus’s residence and provides a glimpse into the life and achievements of one of the most influential figures in Roman history.

You May Also Like: Colosseum Gladiators

Rooms VII and VIII of the Palatine Museum Collection showcase ancient Roman sculptures, reliefs, and mosaics. In Room VII, visitors can see the celebrated mosaic depicting the Four Seasons, which dates back to the 3rd century AD. The room also contains several sculptures, including a statue of a satyr and a statue of a young Hercules. Room VIII features a vast collection of imperial portraits and busts, including busts of Tiberius and Claudius. It also contains several intricate reliefs, such as the famous “Apotheosis of Homer,” which depicts the Greek poet being carried to Mount Olympus by personifications of Knowledge and the Arts. Together, Rooms VII and VIII offer a fascinating glimpse into the art and culture of ancient Rome, and are a must-see for visitors to the Palatine Hill.

Must Read: Places to Visit Near Colosseum

Room IX, also known as "The Gallery," is one of the most notable rooms in the Palatine hill Museum Collection. It is a long rectangular room with a vaulted ceiling and was likely used to display artwork and sculptures. The room contains many valuable works of art, including some from the nearby House of Livia. Some of the notable pieces in the gallery include a statue of the young Dionysus, the Aphrodite Anadyomene, and the Apollo Citharoedus. The room is also adorned with frescoes depicting landscapes and mythological scenes. The Gallery provides a glimpse into the opulence of ancient Roman art and is a must-visit for anyone interested in art history.

Also Read: Septizodium