FIT FOR A PRINCESS

Enjoy an exclusive tour of one of Rome’s most cherished private art collections. Our special reservation guarantees VIP access when doors are closed to the general public, offering visitors the unique opportunity to examine the masterpieces on display in comfort and privacy. You will gain an unforgettable glimpse of the opulent lifestyle of the capital’s powerful elite as you wander through an aristocratic family’s private mansion.

Palazzo Colonna is among a handful of Roman residences that still belongs to its original owners, the noble Colonna family, protagonists of the capital’s social, political and religious history for some nine hundred years. Indeed the origins of the Colonnas date back to the 12th century when the dynasty’s first representative is mentioned in historical documents as residing in the countryside south of Rome, near the town of Colonna, from which the House derives its name. In the early 1200s a branch of the family settled on the slopes of the Quirinal Hill and, quite astoundingly, after 31 generations, thanks to timely marriages, acquisitions, bonds with the Church and military feats, their descendants continue to make this building their home. Notable members of the Colonna family include Pope Martin V and the celebrated Marcantonio Colonna who led the Christian navy to victory over the Ottoman fleet at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.

Gaze round in delight as you are led through the palazzo’s grandiose and elaborately decorated halls. Your guide will treat you to wondrous tales of the Colonna family and the artists who contributed to the splendour of their prestigious art gallery. While you sift through the collection, admiring an impressive procession of 15th and 16th century paintings, you will begin to distinguish the characteristic traits of some of Italy’s well-loved masters, including Pinturicchio, Bronzino, Cosmè Tura, Annibale Carracci, Guido Reni and Tintoretto. The dazzling display of precious ebony and ivory cabinets, Carrara marble busts, chandeliers, tapestries, clocks and vases make an unmistakable statement about the wealth of this distinguished family who successfully managed to uphold privilege and power over the centuries.

The private apartments of Princess Isabelle, a prominent 20th century member of the family who occupied a prime position amongst the Roman elite, is also part of the tour. Isabelle jealously safeguarded the collection through the dark times of World War II and is largely responsible for opening the private residence to the public. The apartments are still pretty much as they were when she used to receive her close friends and famous international guests.