Museo Nazionale Romano, Terme di Diocleziano

Archaeological museum · Castro Pretorio

Museo Nazionale Romano, Terme di Diocleziano

Archaeological museum · Castro Pretorio

Viale Enrico de Nicola, 78, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Highlights

Experience the grandeur of the Terme di Diocleziano, where ancient Roman baths meet serene Michelangelo-designed cloisters, creating a captivating historic gem.

Viale Enrico de Nicola, 78, 00185 Roma RM, Italy Get directions

museonazionaleromano.beniculturali.it

@museonazionaleromano

@michelinguide

"As a monumental complex built between 298 and 306 AD, the Terme di Diocleziano are unique in terms of their size and state of preservation. Spread over 13 hectares, they were able to accommodate over 3,000 people. The structure adhered to the classic layout of Imperial baths, with a caldarium, tepidarium, and frigidarium set along a central axis. The natatio, a 4 000m² outdoor swimming pool, and the vast symmetrical gymnasiums add to the majesty of the site. In operation until the 6th century, the thermal baths were then abandoned until 1561, when Pope Pius IV commissioned Michelangelo to convert them into a church and a Carthusian monastery." - The MICHELIN Guide

The Best Hotel Spas in Rome

View Postcard for Museo Nazionale Romano, Terme di Diocleziano

Dan H

Google

This review is specifically for the Tony Cragg: Infinite forme e bellissime Solo exhibition at the Museo Nazionale Romano which runs until 4 May 2025. The museum’s grand old vaulted interiors are a spectacular backdrop for Tony Cragg’s contemporary sculptures: If you’re a fan of abstract modern sculpture you won’t want to miss this one. Sans Cragg sculptures the Museum is worthwhile, but more like 4 out of 5 stars.

Alexey Krasavin

Google

The Museo Nazionale Romano at Terme di Diocleziano is a hidden gem for history lovers. The Epigraphic Museum is fascinating, offering a unique glimpse into Roman daily life through ancient inscriptions. The inner courtyard, designed by Michelangelo, is serene and beautifully preserved. The highlight for me was the ancient olive tree, which stands proudly as a symbol of history and resilience. It creates a perfect blend of nature and architecture, making the visit both educational and meditative. Highly recommend taking some time to relax in the courtyard and admire this masterpiece of history. A must-visit in Rome!

Nee Shen Ho

Google

Museum is close to Rome Termini station. My understanding is that you buy the ticket that allows access to 3 museums for 7 days. This is a good filler in between visits to key attractions in Rome There are 2 main things to see here. First is the Roman baths, whatever that is left of the shell. Imagine the grandiosity of this place at the height of Roman empire. Then there's the larger cloister that was designed by Michelangelo. Grab a coffee from the vending machine, sit on the low wall and enjoy the breeze in the peaceful cloister. Not many people visited this place while I was there in Aug 2024.

Julie DeAngelis

Google

It’s so interesting here! I stopped by for 2 hours while I had some time between trains. There are relics from magic! Anna Perenna fountain. Also there is a tomb of a female from 7th Cen BCE! No crowds at all. There is also a relic from the oldest document of Latin script! You will love it all!

Matt Lindley

Google

Good museum and a welcome place to get away from the huge crowds everywhere else. Very interesting exhibits on the history of the city. The baths were closed while we were there which was a little disappointing. The courtyard with the statues and animal heads in the centre was very peaceful.

Dave Estrera

Google

Went here for the cloister of Michaelangelo (which I saw and was relaxing) and for the Dometian baths which were sadly closed. The empty spaces showcased also modern art. I do hope it is connected to the site and not has it's own theme.

Michael Stemmeler

Google

I didn't actually visit the Terme on this trip. I had done that in 2017. But I visited the public garden at the entrance to the Terme. Mainly, I observed a crane truck hauling huge Roman spoglia pieces through an ancient gate of the Terme. That alone was worth my time today.

Phillip Ströbel

Google

Nice museum, especially if you're interested in the Arval brotherhood. No wait, an right next to the Termini train station. Must be one of the most underrated museums in Rome. It offers more than you might expect. The downside is that some of the objects' descriptions are not visible anymore.