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Capitoline Hill (or Monte Capitolino) – one of the most popular and significant of the seven hills on which ancient Rome was built. This is the place where people once worshipped ancient gods, where laws were passed, where wealthy noblemen built their luxurious villas, and where Renaissance masters made history.
History
Not everyone knows, but Capitoline Hill was chosen by Romulus (the first king of Rome) as the starting point for a new city called Rome. In ancient Rome, the Capitoline became the site of Senate gatherings and the official records office – the Tabularium.
The Capitoline Temple (also called the Capitoline Triad Temple) was built in the 5th century BC. The temple was dedicated to three principal ancient Roman gods: Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. The fall of the Roman Empire in 1453 led to the destruction of these structures to the point where citizens were using the area to herd cattle.
Only in 1536 did Capitoline Hill, with Piazza del Campidoglio crowning its top, begin to regain its present appearance in anticipation of the arrival of the Spanish King Charles V in 1538. Ashamed of the state of Capitoline Hill, Pope Paul III commissioned the then and now renowned Renaissance architect and artist Michelangelo Buonarroti to restore Capitoline Hill to its former grandeur, making it a renewed symbol of Rome.
Although Michelangelo did not live to complete the restoration project, his students carried on his work, and construction was finally completed in 1654.
Modernity
The central place of the hill is proudly occupied by the Piazza del Campidoglio. From above, you can see that the square is shaped like a trapezium. Michelangelo designed it to be visually open to the city and its citizens.
At the centre of the square stands the Palace of Senators (Palazzo Senatorio), flanked by the Palace of the Conservators (Palazzo dei Conservatori) and Palazzo Nuovo. The complex of the Capitoline Museums is filled with hidden symbols that continue to intrigue scholars and art historians. Who knows, perhaps you will be the one to decipher Michelangelo’s secret messages?
Attractions to See
Below is a recommended sequence for exploring the main highlights of Capitoline Hill from the outside.
Cross-reference these stops with our map of viewing platforms for the best photo opportunities, and plan to spend at least an hour if you wish to examine everything in detail. Once you’ve completed this circuit, consider finishing your visit with a tour of the Capitoline Museums to immerse yourself in the area’s rich artistic and historical heritage.
Insula dell’Ara Coeli
Before ascending the main staircase—Michelangelo’s Cordonata Capitolina—veer slightly to the left to discover one of the best-preserved examples of ancient Roman “apartment buildings.”
Built in the 2nd century AD, the Insula dell’Ara Coeli once housed multiple floors of living quarters—some of which now lie below street level due to centuries of redevelopment. During the Middle Ages, part of the structure served as a hospice for pilgrims, and you can still spot remnants of medieval frescoes beneath a small chapel-like shelter. Steps to the right of the insula lead up to the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, but there’s no need to climb them just yet.
Instead, follow the optimal route on the map below to conserve your energy and explore the hill in a more unconventional way—eventually circling back to this spot beside the insula.
Fontane dei Leoni Egizi
Flanking the base of the Cordonata Capitolina, these twin fountains feature ancient Egyptian lion sculptures repurposed during the Renaissance.
Michelangelo is credited with integrating them into his grand design for the Capitol, transforming the lions into water-spouting fountains that welcome visitors ascending the hill. At night, the soft illumination and gentle flow of water create a magical atmosphere, highlighting the harmonious blend of ancient and Renaissance artistry on Capitoline Hill.
Cordonata Capitolina
The Cordonata Capitolina is the elegant, gently sloping staircase designed by Michelangelo to lead visitors from the base of the hill up to the Piazza del Campidoglio.
Unlike a traditional flight of stairs, its wide, shallow steps allow for both pedestrians and mounted riders to ascend comfortably. The symmetrical design, flanked by statues and decorative balustrades, creates a grand yet inviting approach to Capitoline Hill, reflecting Michelangelo’s vision of openness and civic pride.
The Monument to Cola di Rienzo
On the left side of the main steps leading up to Capitoline Hill stands a striking bronze statue of Cola di Rienzo, a popular 14th-century Roman leader who sought to revive the Roman Republic.
Created in the late 19th century by sculptor Girolamo Masini, the monument portrays Rienzo in a dramatic pose—arm raised, clad in a cloak—symbolising his passionate call for the restoration of Rome’s ancient civic freedoms.
Born Nicola Gabrini, Rienzo earned the moniker “Cola di Rienzo” and rose to prominence by championing the rights of ordinary citizens against powerful nobles. Although his revolutionary government was short-lived, he remains an enduring figure in Rome’s history. The statue’s prominent placement by the Capitoline steps reminds visitors of the city’s long tradition of political struggle and the enduring allure of its republican ideals.
Statue dei Dioscuri
At the top of the Cordonata Capitolina stand the towering statues of Castor and Pollux, known collectively as the Dioscuri, the fabled twin sons of Zeus.
These imposing marble figures, dating back to ancient Roman times, symbolise protection and heroism. According to mythology, the Dioscuri were revered as patrons of travellers and guardians of Rome, making their presence at the entrance to the piazza both striking and symbolic of the city’s storied past.
The Bronze Statue of Marcus Aurelius
In the heart of Capitoline Square, one of the most striking features is the magnificent bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius. Cast in the 2nd century, this equestrian masterpiece has captivated historians, art enthusiasts, and visitors alike with its powerful presence and timeless design.
Notably, the statue lacks stirrups—a detail that underscores its ancient origins, as Roman cavalry rode without them long before such innovations appeared. The horse, impressively large and gracefully poised, conveys both strength and calm authority, while the emperor’s relaxed yet commanding pose embodies the dignity and benevolence of his reign.
It’s important to note that the bronze you see in the square is a copy; the original is carefully preserved in the Capitoline Museums. This remarkable preservation is partly due to a fortunate twist of history. In the tumultuous years following the fall of the Roman Empire, many bronze statues were melted down for reuse. However, this particular statue was spared—mainly because it was mistakenly identified as a depiction of Emperor Constantine. This misidentification saved it from destruction and allowed its legacy to endure, continuing to inspire awe in all who encounter it.
Palace of Senators
The Palace of Senators (Palazzo Senatorio), built between the 13th and 14th centuries, now serves as Rome’s City Hall. Its interior is largely off-limits to tourists.
However, museum visitors can still access the Galleria Lapidaria, which showcases some of the most important works from the Capitoline’s epigraphic collection. From within the ancient underground corridors of the Tabularium—the official records office of ancient Rome—you’ll also discover a unique terrace that offers a stunning panoramic view over the Roman Forum.
Exploring these corridors provides a fascinating glimpse into the political life of the city’s ancient past.
Palace of the Conservators
Originally constructed in the 14th century, the Palace of the Conservators (Palazzo dei Conservatori) once served as the meeting place for local magistrates—judges and senators known as conservatori.
Today, it houses a remarkable museum where you can admire marble busts from Ancient Rome, vibrant frescoes, and an impressive Pinacoteca featuring works by masters such as Caravaggio, Rubens, and Velázquez.
Highlights include the Sala degli Orazi e Curiazi, adorned with frescoes depicting legendary episodes from Rome’s early history, as well as several notable bronzes—such as the famous Spinario (Boy with Thorn) and the original Capitoline Wolf (now relocated indoors to protect it from the elements). Together, these collections offer an exceptional journey through Rome’s artistic and civic legacy.
Palazzo Nuovo
As the newest addition to Michelangelo’s Capitoline complex, Palazzo Nuovo was built in the 17th century as a mirror image of the Palace of the Conservators.
This palace is a dream for sculpture enthusiasts, boasting an extensive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statues. Among its most celebrated pieces are the evocative “Dying Gaul”, the elegant “Capitoline Venus”, and the colossal “Marforio”, a river god statue that once served as one of Rome’s famed “talking statues.”
With its spacious halls and carefully curated exhibits, Palazzo Nuovo offers a captivating visual journey through the evolution of classical art. From its windows, visitors can also enjoy a unique perspective of the Bronze Statue of Marcus Aurelius in the heart of the square, adding yet another unforgettable view to the museum experience.
All three palaces form the core of the Capitoline Museums. They share the same operating hours, and admission to each is included with a single Capitoline Museums ticket.
The Colossus of Constantine
Initially towering over the Basilica of Maxentius in the Roman Forum, the monumental statue of Emperor Constantine once stood around 12 metres (40 feet) high.
Today, its surviving fragments—including the colossal head, hand, and foot—are displayed in the tranquil garden of Villa Caffarelli, part of the Capitoline Museums. This remarkable setting highlights the fusion of ancient art and modern preservation, offering visitors a profound glimpse into Rome’s historical and cultural legacy.
Fountain of the Goddess Roma
Situated in front of the Palazzo Senatorio, the Fountain of the Goddess Roma pays tribute to the city’s personification.
This majestic centrepiece features a statue of Dea Roma presiding over two allegorical river gods—representing the Tiber and Aniene—who flank her on either side.
Flowing water cascades around them, creating a serene focal point that contrasts with the grandeur of the surrounding architecture. The fountain’s symbolic portrayal of Rome’s enduring spirit and strength offers a powerful reminder of the city’s timeless cultural legacy.
The Wolf Statue at the Senatorial Palace
To the left side of the Senatorial Palace—if you’re standing at the centre of the square—stands a striking bronze statue of a she-wolf nursing the twins Romulus and Remus, known as the “Capitoline Wolf.” This sculpture marks the entrance to Rome’s City Hall and is a beloved symbol of the city’s legendary origins.
The statue you see today is actually a modern copy installed in 1997, measuring roughly 75 cm (about 2.5 ft) in height and 114 cm (about 3.7 ft) in length. The original ancient (or possibly mediaeval) bronze piece is preserved inside the Capitoline Museums, where it is safeguarded from the elements and potential damage. By placing a replica outdoors, the city ensures that visitors can still appreciate this iconic emblem in its historical setting without risking harm to the centuries-old original.
The Capitoline Wolf has long been intertwined with the myth of Rome’s founding: Romulus and Remus, abandoned as infants, were said to have been rescued and nursed by a she-wolf before Romulus went on to establish the city. Today, this enduring image of maternal care and civic pride stands as a testament to Rome’s storied past and its lasting cultural identity.
Fontana dell’Acqua Marcia
This unassuming fountain is fed by one of Rome’s oldest and most renowned aqueducts.
Built around 144 BC by the praetor Quintus Marcius Rex, the original Acqua Marcia aqueduct stretched for over 90 kilometres (56 miles) and was celebrated for its exceptionally pure water. Over the centuries, various popes and city officials restored sections of the aqueduct to ensure a steady supply. The fountain you see today dates back to the 19th century and still delivers the aqueduct’s pristine water.
For a hands-free drink—just as locals do—lightly cover the main spout with your finger and let the water flow through the small hole on top, providing a refreshing pause during your Capitoline exploration.
Scale Gemonie (Stairs of Mourning)
Dating back to ancient Rome, the Scale Gemonie—also known as the Gemonian Stairs—earned their morbid nickname due to their grim role in the city’s past.
Although their exact construction date is uncertain, it is widely believed they were built before the reign of Emperor Tiberius (AD 14–37), as no ancient texts predating this period refer to them by name. Situated near the Tullianum prison, these steps led from the Roman Forum up toward Capitoline Hill. Condemned criminals were sometimes dragged here for execution, and their bodies were left on display as a stark warning to onlookers. Notable figures such as the disgraced praetorian prefect Sejanus (AD 31) and Emperor Vitellius (AD 69) met their fate on these very stairs.
Today, the Stairs of Mourning is a lesser-known route to explore Capitoline Hill. Ascend them, and just before reaching the top, turn left to discover a discreet entrance into the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli—a hidden approach that bypasses the main crowds while offering a haunting glimpse into Rome’s storied past.
Basilica of St. Mary of the Altar of Heaven
Built on the site of the ancient Temple of Juno Moneta, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful churches in Rome.
Originally a Greek monastery before passing into the care of Franciscan and Benedictine orders, it was formally consecrated in 1921—capping off centuries of rich religious tradition. Be sure to sit on the benches to admire the ornately carved wooden ceiling and explore the side chapels. The basilica is also home to the venerated image of the Madonna Aracoeli (Our Lady of the Golden Hands) and the wooden statue of the Santo Bambino of Aracoeli, believed by many to hold miraculous powers.
For a stunning final impression, exit through the doorway opposite the main aisle.
From there, you’ll be greeted by a captivating view of dozens of chandeliers—if you’re lucky, they might even be lit. You may also catch a glimpse of a wedding ceremony in progress, adding a special touch to your visit.
Read also about the main tourist attractions to see in Rome.
Interesting Facts
- Cast around AD 176, the bronze statue of Marcus Aurelius was miraculously spared from destruction during the mediaeval purge of pagan idols. Because its features resembled those of Emperor Constantine, early Christians believed it depicted the first Christian emperor. This fortunate misidentification saved the statue, making it the only large-scale equestrian bronze to survive in ancient Rome.
- On the site of the Temple of Juno Moneta, the Romans minted silver coins bearing the goddess’s likeness. Over time, the word “Moneta” (Latin for “mint” or “money”) evolved into the modern term “money” in numerous languages. The temple is believed to have been established around the 4th century BC.
- Long attributed to the 5th century BC and the Etruscans, the famous bronze statue of the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus was shown by modern analysis to date from the 13th century. The twin infants were added in the 15th century, cementing its role as a symbol of Rome’s legendary origins.
- The Capitoline Square (Piazza del Campidoglio) has a trapezoidal layout designed by Michelangelo in 1536. This clever shape visually opens the space towards the city and St Peter’s Basilica, emphasising Rome’s renewed focus on papal authority and modern urban design.
- The Capitoline Museums, formally established in 1734 by Pope Clement XII, are considered the first public museums in the world. Today, they house an array of ancient Roman artefacts, Renaissance masterpieces, and hidden symbols that continue to intrigue historians and art lovers.
- Before Michelangelo’s redesign, the main approach to Capitoline Hill faced the Roman Forum. Pope Paul III commissioned the overhaul to reorient the hill’s focal point towards St Peter’s Basilica, signifying the papacy’s growing influence in Rome during the 16th century.
- In ancient times, Capitoline Hill was also known as Mons Saturnius, dedicated to the god Saturn. Later, it took its name from the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus (the Capitolium), which once dominated its southern summit. Over the centuries, the hill’s evolving names have mirrored Rome’s shifting religious and political landscapes.
Capitol Hill Viewing Platforms to Take the Best Shots From
Capitol Hill offers a wealth of photogenic angles for both budding enthusiasts and seasoned professionals. In this section, you’ll discover around ten unique vantage points that showcase the Eternal City’s splendour, each with its own lighting nuances and compositional tricks. We’ll move anticlockwise—starting from the top of the main staircase leading up from Piazza Venezia—so you can easily follow along and capture remarkable images at every turn.
Piazzale Caffarelli
This first vantage point offers sweeping views of Rome’s historic rooftops, including the Jewish Ghetto, with several church domes rising in the distance.
Most prominent among them is the unmistakable dome of St Peter’s Basilica. Early morning and late afternoon light accentuate the city’s warm tones, making it ideal for both wide-angle shots of the skyline and tighter compositions highlighting individual architectural details.
Terrazza Caffarelli – The Secret Point
Hidden on the grounds of the Capitoline Museums’ café, Terrazza Caffarelli is a lesser-known vantage point that’s actually free to access.
Simply head through the door, climb one flight of stairs (where you’ll find a convenient free loo), and step onto the terrace. From this tucked-away corner, you can admire the Theatre of Marcellus, the Great Synagogue of Rome, and, in the distance, the Gianicolo Hill—complete with the Acqua Paola Fountain and the monument to Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Pro Spot: An Unusual View of the Roman Forum
Continuing anticlockwise, you’ll pass by the statue of the Colossus of Constantine—a quiet route seldom travelled by tourists.
After about five minutes, you’ll reach an elevated observation deck that sits slightly higher than the usual viewpoint. From here, you’ll be rewarded with a unique angle on the Roman Forum, with a clear line of sight to the Temple of Saturn and the Church of Santi Luca e Martina Martiri.
Iconic View from the Right of the Roman Forum
Descend slightly to reach a celebrated vantage point often seen in magazines and postcards.
It frames the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, the Colosseum, and other renowned relics of ancient Rome. Sunset is ideal for dramatic side light, while the blue hour provides a magical contrast between the illuminated ruins and the still-vibrant sky. For sharp, high-quality shots, use a tripod and lenses ranging from 24mm to 100mm.
View of the Forum of Caesar and Trajan
This spot is also rarely frequented by tourists.
From Capitoline Square, circle around the Palace of Senators to the left—near the Capitoline Wolf—and continue slightly further to reveal an impressive panorama of the Forum of Caesar, the Forum of Trajan, and Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Arriving just before sunrise is ideal, as the first light transforms these ancient ruins and creates a breathtaking moment that transports you back to Imperial Rome. Many find it an intensely moving experience—one that captures the city’s timeless spirit.
View from the Steps of Ara Coeli
Upon exiting the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli through its main entrance, you’ll be greeted by a striking vista that includes the Altar of the Fatherland, the remains of an ancient Roman insula, and a glimpse of Piazza Venezia. With a telephoto lens (100mm or longer), you can also capture a distant shot of St Peter’s dome.
Suppose you look across at the building opposite. In that case, you’ll notice the top-floor windows—according to local gossip, these stunning apartments once belonged to the iconic Italian actress Sophia Loren.
Take a moment to sit on the steps, soak in the view, and then continue descending to explore more of Rome’s wonders.
Route Map
This interactive map pinpoints every primary sight and observation deck on Capitoline Hill. Feel free to use it to plan your route, explore hidden gems, and fall head over heels for the Eternal City.
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