Bernini and the Barberini: exhibition at Palazzo Barberini until 14

Bernini and the Barberini: exhibition at Palazzo Barberini

Until 14 June 2026, the Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica at Palazzo Barberini stage an exhibition that reconstructs the artistic and patronage relationship between Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Cardinal Maffeo Barberini, a key factor in the development of Baroque Rome.

Organised by Andrea Bacchi and Maurizia Cicconi, the show examines how their collaboration supported major monumental projects, with particular emphasis on commissions connected to St Peter's Basilica and the 400th anniversary of its consecration (1626).

What to see

• Key sculptures: works that mark the emergence of Baroque sculpture, including important loans from international collections.
• Family comparisons: pieces by Pietro Bernini juxtaposed with those by his son Gian Lorenzo to trace artistic transmission and innovation.
• Portraits and busts: representations of the Barberini ancestors and busts of Urban VIII in marble and bronze.
• Bernini as painter: rarely exhibited paintings, including the only major public painting attributed to the artist.
• Drawings and models: archival materials and models documenting work on major commissions, from the Baldachin to Urban VIII's funerary monument.

Practical information

The exhibition is published with an illustrated catalogue containing scholarly essays and object entries. Major museums have contributed loans. For ticketing, opening hours and guided visits please refer to the official site of the Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica.

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