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The Galleria Borghese in Rome

22nd January 2007

Rome's Borghese Gallery holds one of the finest private collections in Italy, and continues to amaze guests and visitors from across the world.

The Gallery is found within the Villa Borghese mansion, a building originally constructed between 1613 and 1616 on Rome's Pinician Hill, a location which offers spectacular views of the city below.

The marble mansion was the property of Scipione Borghese, an influential nephew of Pope Paul V. It was Borghese himself who began the Gallery's collection of relics, sculptures and paintings.

Scipione Borghese is featured in a portrait by famous sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Some of the finest works of Baroque sculpture are found in the collection of Bernini's work, including Apollo and Daphne and David.

The Gallery also holds one of the largest Caravaggio collections in the world, featuring works such as David with the Head of Goliath and Madonna of the Palafrenieri.

Works by Rubens, Titian and Raphael can also be found in the Borghese. Detailed marble floors and elaborate mosaics and frescoes from both the Roman and Baroque periods mean the surroundings are equally fascinating.

The Gallery is found within the Villa Borghese gardens, former vineyards that now occupy almost 150 acres of land. The relaxing surroundings are the perfect setting for visitors to enjoy a look back at centuries of fine art.

© Adfero Ltd

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