The Palazzo Barberini is home to part of the important National Gallery of Ancient Art and the Italian Institute of Numismatics. It is located in the historic center of Rome, about 200 meters from Piazza Barberini.
The palace was built in the period 1625-1633 under supervision of the elderly Carlo Maderno, who was assisted by Francesco Borromini. After the death of Maderno in 1629 the site was under the direction of Bernini. Once World War II ended, the building was acquired by the Italian State, which used it as a gallery. Today it’s being restored very carefully including the construction of a garden, which will make the building accessible to the public. The intent of the restoration is to create, a real National Gallery, with works displayed in chronological order. However, there should also be the possibility of including new purchases and additions.