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Chiostro di Michelangelo: A Renaissance Sanctuary

Discover a serene Renaissance masterpiece in Rome's heart, the Chiostro di Michelangelo, featuring stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.

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The Chiostro di Michelangelo, or Michelangelo's Cloister, is a stunning Renaissance architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Rome. Part of the National Roman Museum at the Baths of Diocletian, it features a serene courtyard surrounded by 100 travertine columns, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

A brief summary to Chiostro di Michelangelo

  • Tuesday 11 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 11 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
  • Check for temporary art exhibitions held within the cloister, offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary art.
  • Take a moment to sit by the central fountain and enjoy the peaceful ambiance away from the city's hustle.
  • Explore the nearby Baths of Diocletian and National Roman Museum to enrich your understanding of Roman history and art.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Termini Station, exit and walk along Via Enrico de Nicola. The Chiostro di Michelangelo is approximately a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, walk to Piazza della Repubblica and continue along Via Enrico de Nicola. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Termini Station, take Metro Line A to Repubblica station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the Chiostro di Michelangelo. A single metro ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    From central Rome, a taxi or ride-sharing service to Chiostro di Michelangelo (Via Enrico de Nicola, 76, 00185 Roma RM) typically costs between €10 and €20, depending on traffic. There are no additional mandatory access fees.

  • Car

    Drive towards Via Enrico de Nicola, 76, 00185 Roma RM. Limited street parking is available; nearby parking garages charge approximately €2-4 per hour. Be aware of limited traffic zones.

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Discover more about Chiostro di Michelangelo

Nestled within the Baths of Diocletian, the Chiostro di Michelangelo stands as a testament to Renaissance artistry and tranquility. Though traditionally attributed to Michelangelo, it's more likely he conceived the initial design, with construction carried out by his students after his death in 1564. The cloister's construction began in 1565 and continued through the 17th century. Pope Pius IV commissioned Michelangelo to transform part of the Baths of Diocletian into a church and monastery in 1561. The Chiostro is one of the largest cloisters in Italy, boasting a vast expanse of 10,000 square meters. Its four wings, each 100 meters long, are defined by 100 monolithic travertine columns. The central garden features an ornate fountain dating back to 1695 and is adorned with seven colossal animal heads found near Trajan's Column in 1586. These sculptures and the interplay of light and shadow create a captivating atmosphere. Visitors can wander through the cloister, admiring ancient sarcophagi, statues, and the harmonious proportions of the space. The Chiostro di Michelangelo offers a unique opportunity to experience contemporary art within a historical setting, as it often hosts art exhibitions. The trompe-l'oeil painting near the entrance, created by Filippo Balbi in 1885, adds a touch of whimsy, depicting a Carthusian monk. The Chiostro provides a serene escape where the sounds of the city fade away, allowing for a deeper connection with Rome's artistic heritage.

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