Doria Pamphilj Gallery

This is my favourite gallery in Rome. I saw a picture of Mimi Thorrison on instagram visiting Doria Pamphilj and I knew I had to go there as well.

I like my galleries grandiose! The more dramatic, the better! The Doria Pamphilj Gallery is a privately owned gallery by the Pamphilj family (super rich and famous!). 

The gallery contains medieval and Byzantine art including masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Velázquez.  I love the fact that this gallery is not crowded. It's not part of the tourist card so you won't have a big crowd bumping you while you browse the collections. I found it very peaceful amidst the sometimes chaotic Rome.

I took my time exploring each room. There is a lot to see. The only problem here is that most paintings do not have descriptions so I highly recommend getting the audio guide (it's free when you buy your ticket) to accompany you on your exploration inside the gallery. Prince Jonathan Doria Pamphilj narrates his family story on the audio guide. He narrates his family history and provides tidbits about the collection. 

The Gallery of Mirrors was designed by Gabriele Valvassori. This is my favourite part of the gallery. It is lined with mirrors, statues, and chandeliers. And not to mention the frescoes on the ceiling.

Wall to wall of paintings!

The gallery has gone through renovations as parts of the building has been damaged. This is one of the rooms that has been recently renovated.