A palace overlooking Piazza Navona

Just steps from Piazza Navona, between the square and Campo de' Fiori, stands Palazzo Braschi, an imposing 18th-century palace that houses the Museo di Roma (Museum of Rome). It was the last great palace built in Rome by a papal family (the Braschi, relatives of Pope Pio VI), and today it tells the story of the city through paintings, sculpture, furnishings and photographs, from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Its location, between Piazza Navona and Piazza San Pantaleo, makes it a perfect stop in the heart of the historic center.

The history of the palace

Palazzo Braschi was built in the late 18th century for the family of Pope Pio VI (Giovanni Angelo Braschi), to a design by the architect Cosimo Morelli. It is considered the last example of a grand papal noble palace in Rome. After several changes of fortune, in the 20th century it became home to the Museo di Roma, devoted to the life, art and transformation of the city across the centuries.

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What to see at the Museo di Roma

The museum holds a rich collection that brings Rome to life:

  • The spectacular monumental staircase at the entrance, with granite columns and statues.
  • Paintings and vedute (views) of Rome, portraits, and scenes of city life and festivities.
  • Furnishings, costumes, ceramics and objects belonging to Rome's noble families.
  • Historic photographs and records of the city's urban transformations.

We go deeper in our guide to what to see at the Museo di Roma.

The location: between Piazza Navona and Pasquino

Palazzo Braschi sits in one of the liveliest corners of the center: on one side it faces Piazza Navona, on the other Piazza di Pasquino, home to the famous talking statue of Pasquino. We've dedicated a separate guide to it: Pasquino, the talking statue.

Hours, tickets and how to get there

For opening hours, ticket prices and entry details, see our guide to tickets and hours for the Museo di Roma. To plan your trip, check how to get to Palazzo Braschi.

Frequently asked questions

What is Palazzo Braschi? An imposing 18th-century palace beside Piazza Navona, the last great papal palace in Rome, now home to the Museo di Roma, devoted to the history of the city.

What can you see at the Museo di Roma? The monumental staircase, paintings and vedute of Rome, portraits, furnishings, costumes and historic photographs that trace the life and transformations of the city from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.

Where is Palazzo Braschi? In the heart of the historic center, between Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori, also facing Piazza di Pasquino. It's right next to Piazza Navona.

Is it worth visiting? Yes, especially for anyone who loves the history of Rome and for the monumental staircase. It's also perfectly placed for exploring Piazza Navona and the center.

How much time do you need? About 1 to 1.5 hours for the collection, easily combined with Piazza Navona and the historic center.

See also

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Article #467 · Category: Museums · Updated: May 2026