Looking for an art gallery in Rome with an amazing history and a rich collection of artwork? Then head to the Galleria Doria Pamphilj located near the Spanish Steps in Rome. This gallery is home to a wealth of seventeenth century art, collected by the Italian Doria-Pamphilj family.

The family, whose umbrella name of Doria-Pamphilj embraces the families of Doria, Pamphilj, Aldobrandini and Landi, is an illustrious and wealthy one, with Popes and Princes among its members. The Galleria Doria Pamphilj was once the home of Pope Innocent X, who belonged to the Pamphilj family.

An English heritage line runs in the family and the quarter-English Princess Orietta Pogson Doria Pamphilj and her English husband were responsible for the restoration of the family’s art collection. The collection was opened to the public soon after the collection was restored. Some of the seventeenth century artists represented here includes Annibale Carracci, Jan Bruegel, Caravaggio, Gaspard Dughet, Guido Reni, Claude Lorrain and Guercino.

In addition to paintings, the Galleria Doria Pamphilj also houses fine sculptures by Bernini and Algardi. Some of the sculptures in the Galleria Doria Pamphilj collection date from ancient times; the gallery also boasts interesting antique furniture and furnishings on display. The gem of the collection housed at the Galleria Doria Pamphilj is a portrait of Pope Innocent X, painted by Velázquez.

Some of the masterpieces at the Galleria Doria Pamphilj include:

• Salome with Head of John the Baptist by Titian
• Carracci’s Mary Magdalene
• Saletta del Cinqecento by Raphael
• Madonna in Adoration of the Child by Reni and St. Joseph by Guercino

Located off Via del Corso at the Piazza del Collegio, the Galleria Doria Pamphilj is open between 10 am and 5 pm on Fridays and Wednesdays. You can also request a private tour of the gallery. Admission costs €8 for adults and €5.70 for seniors and students.

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