Bernini and the Barberini: A Baroque Masterpiece Exhibition at Palazzo Barberini

The Birth of the Baroque: Exploring "Bernini and the Barberini"

Following the monumental success of the Caravaggio 2025 showcase, the Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica is proud to announce its next major cultural event: "Bernini and the Barberini." Running from February 12 to June 14, 2026, this landmark exhibition at Palazzo Barberini offers an intimate look at one of the most significant artistic partnerships in history—the creative and political alliance between the visionary Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his greatest patron, Maffeo Barberini (Pope Urban VIII).

A Historic Celebration of Art and Influence

The year 2026 marks the 400th anniversary of the consecration of the new St. Peter’s Basilica, a moment that defined Bernini’s career and solidified Rome as the epicenter of the Baroque movement. This exhibition, curated by experts Andrea Bacchi and Maurizia Cicconi, serves as a celebration of that legacy.

Visitors will journey through the corridors of the very palace the Barberini family called home, experiencing firsthand how the "Urban Bees" (the family's heraldic symbol) helped shape the aesthetic of the Eternal City.

Exhibition Highlights & Itinerary

Divided into six meticulously curated sections, the exhibition traces Bernini’s evolution from a promising young talent to the undisputed master of the Baroque.

• The Patron and the Protegé: Learn how Maffeo Barberini "discovered" Bernini and how their shared intellectual curiosity led to the creation of Rome’s most famous landmarks.

• Ancestors in Marble: For the first time in centuries, the gallery of Barberini ancestor portraits returns to the palace. These masterpieces, sculpted by Bernini, Giuliano Finelli, and Francesco Mochi, have been gathered from prestigious private and public collections worldwide.

• The Barberini Taste: The exhibition concludes with a deep dive into the "Apes Urbanae" circle, exploring the broader cultural influence and sophisticated taste of the Barberini court.

Why This Exhibition is Unmissable

This isn't just a display of statues and paintings; it is a narrative of power, faith, and genius. Through the support of partners like Intesa Sanpaolo and the Fabbrica di San Pietro, "Bernini and the Barberini" provides unprecedented access to works that are rarely seen together. From the bronze busts of Urban VIII to the architectural drawings that redefined Roman skylines, this is the definitive Baroque experience of 2026.

Plan Your Visit

• Dates: February 12, 2026 – June 14, 2026

• Location: Palazzo Barberini, Via delle Quattro Fontane, 13, Rome.

• Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry at 6:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.

• Tickets: Advance booking is highly recommended. Tickets include access to the permanent collection and the nearby Galleria Corsini.

The year 2026 welcomes one of the most significant art events in Europe: "Bernini and the Barberini." This exhibition, hosted within the historic walls of Palazzo Barberini from February 12 to June 14, explores the profound synergy between Gian Lorenzo Bernini and his patron, Pope Urban VIII. It is a journey through the evolution of the Roman Baroque, showcasing how a single partnership redefined the visual identity of the Eternal City.

The Genesis of a Revolution: From Apprentice to Master

The exhibition begins by exploring the formative years of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Before becoming the "Architect of Rome," Bernini was a young talent honing his craft in the shadow of his father, Pietro Bernini.

Breaking the Mold of Mannerism

While Bernini inherited a mastery of marble from his father, he quickly moved beyond the stiff conventions of late Mannerism. Early masterpieces featured in the show, such as the Saint Sebastian and the Putto with Dragon, reveal a burgeoning desire for:

• Dynamic Motion: Sculptures that seem to vibrate with life.

• Theatrical Intensity: Narrative moments captured at their emotional peak.

• Naturalism: A departure from ideal balance in favor of raw, human expression.

By comparing the Four Seasons from the Aldobrandini Collection with his father’s work, visitors can witness the exact moment the Baroque was born—where light and movement replaced the static elegance of the past.

The Gallery of Ancestors: A Historic Homecoming

A centerpiece of this 2026 event is the unprecedented reconstruction of the Barberini Ancestors Gallery. For the first time in centuries, these marble portraits have returned to their original home.

Sculpting Power and Identity

These busts were more than just art; they were political tools used to establish the legitimacy of the Barberini dynasty. The exhibition highlights a fascinating stylistic "duel" between three 17th-century giants:

1. Bernini: Known for dramatic vitality and psychological depth.

2. Giuliano Finelli: Celebrated for his hyper-realistic, intricate detail.

3. Francesco Mochi: Noted for his disciplined, classical composure.

Reuniting these works allows us to understand how the Barberini family used sculpture to weave a visual genealogy of prestige and religious authority.

Urban VIII: The Architect of Propaganda

Section three focuses on Maffeo Barberini, who ascended to the papacy as Urban VIII in 1623. He didn't just support art; he directed it. Urban VIII recognized that Bernini’s genius could be harnessed as a form of "visual propaganda" for the Catholic Church.

The Face of Authority

The display features numerous busts in marble and bronze that capture the Pope’s intellectual energy and spiritual weight. A rare highlight is the inclusion of one of the few paintings definitively attributed to Bernini, displayed alongside a version by Andrea Sacchi (on loan from the National Gallery, London). This comparison underscores the Pope’s desire for Bernini to become a "total artist"—excelling in every medium.

Behind the Scenes: Drawing, Painting, and St. Peter’s

While Bernini is synonymous with sculpture, this exhibition dives deep into his private creative process.

The Total Artist

One section is dedicated to Bernini’s sketches, lighting studies, and rare canvases. These "paper blueprints" reveal how he conceptualized the monumental projects that define Rome today.

Engineering the Sacred: The St. Peter’s Construction Sites

The show reaches a crescendo with the documentation of Bernini's work at St. Peter's Basilica. Through models and drawings, visitors can trace the birth of:

• The Baldacchino: The bronze canopy that serves as the heart of the Baroque.

• The Tomb of Urban VIII: A theatrical fusion of death, devotion, and power.

• The Transept Remodeling: Demonstrating Bernini's mastery over light and perspective to create a "spiritual stage."

A Global Dialogue: International Loans and Cultural Impact

The "Bernini and the Barberini" exhibition is a feat of international cooperation. Masterpieces have been secured from the world's most prestigious institutions, including:

• The Louvre (Paris) and The Albertina (Vienna).

• The J. Paul Getty Museum (Los Angeles) and The Met (New York).

• The Vatican Museums and the Uffizi Gallery.

These loans, including the famous Portrait of Costanza Bonarelli, allow for a broader comparison between Bernini and his contemporaries like Guido Reni and Alessandro Algardi, showcasing the diverse "voices" of the 17th century.

Conclusion: Seeing Rome with New Eyes

"Bernini and the Barberini" is more than a retrospective; it is an invitation to understand the soul of Rome. By exploring the relationship between a visionary artist and an ambitious Pope, visitors gain a new perspective on the marble, light, and theatricality that continue to define the Eternal City today.

Visitor Information: Frequently Asked Questions

When does the exhibition take place? The event runs from February 12 through June 14, 2026. It is hosted within the historic state rooms of Palazzo Barberini in the heart of Rome.

How can I secure tickets? Tickets can be purchased directly through our official online booking portal. Due to the high profile of the international loans, we strongly recommend booking in advance to guarantee your preferred time slot.

What are the best times to visit to avoid large crowds? To enjoy a more quiet experience, we suggest booking the earliest morning slots (10:00 AM) or visiting during the final two hours before closing. Mid-week visits (Tuesday through Thursday) are generally less crowded than weekends.

Do I need prior knowledge of Baroque art to enjoy the show? Not at all. The exhibition is designed as a narrative journey. Each of the six sections features bilingual explanatory panels (Italian and English) that introduce visitors to the historical context, the life of Bernini, and the significance of the Barberini papacy.

How much time should I set aside for the tour? A standard visit typically takes 90 minutes. However, if you are an art enthusiast wishing to study the preparatory drawings and architectural models in detail, we recommend allowing 2 full hours.

Is the venue accessible for visitors with disabilities? Yes. Palazzo Barberini is equipped with elevators and ramps to ensure that the exhibition route is accessible to those with reduced mobility or those using wheelchairs. Please contact the staff upon arrival for any specific assistance.

Are guided tours or audio devices available? Professional guided tours and multilingual audio guides can be reserved at the ticket office or via the website. These provide deeper insights into the symbolism of the works and the secrets of the Barberini court.

What is the policy on photography? Personal photography is permitted for non-commercial use, provided that the flash is turned off and no tripods or "selfie sticks" are used. Please observe specific signage, as some international loans may have restricted photo rights.

Is entry to the permanent museum collection included? Most visitors opt for the Combined Ticket, which provides access to both the "Bernini and the Barberini" temporary exhibition and the permanent masterpieces of the National Gallery (Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica), including works by Raphael and Caravaggio.

Where is the museum located and how do I get there? The museum is located at Via delle Quattro Fontane 13, Rome.

• Metro: Take Line A to the Barberini station (just a 2-minute walk).

• Bus: Numerous lines serve Piazza Barberini and Via del Tritone.

Is there a cloakroom on-site? Yes, a mandatory cloakroom is available for large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas to ensure the safety of the delicate marble sculptures on display.

Can I visit the exhibition and Galleria Corsini with the same ticket? Yes, the standard museum ticket is a 20-day pass, allowing you one entry to Palazzo Barberini and one entry to the Galleria Corsini in Trastevere, offering a complete look at the Barberini-Corsini heritage.