Rome is a place well known for its rich history, but recently it is a city that has become very much more involved in promoting and highlighting a contemporary art culture. The city today has many modern art galleries and institutions and there has been a huge emphasis placed on young, up-to-date and emerging Italian artists. Here are three of our favourite contemporary art offerings in this historically important city.
MACRO
This incredible contemporary art museum is located in two fascinating buildings: the old Peroni beer factory and the old slaughterhouse in Testaccio. This place is very into promoting the ideas of modern art, running programs and endorsing cultural productions. There is a permanent exhibition here created by Daniel Buren that stands alongside the project developed in partnership with UniCredit. The latter includes a huge photo gallery consisting of portraits of artists from different artistic generations.
MAXXI
This is the first museum in the city that is solely dedicated to art of a contemporary nature. Very much into promoting awareness and raising the profile of contemporary art in Rome, it stands out in a city very much characterised by stereotypical, dated architecture and art. The actual building is unique and somewhat fascinating to the visitor with its fresh and simple interiors and huge light and airy space.
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CO2
This artistic institution in Rome is primarily focused on raising the profile of up and coming artists from the Italian art scene as well as the international one. Gianni Politi and Andrea Dojmi are among the artists that have already been hosted here. On the international artist stage, one of the most prestigious exhibitions featured here was called Chester, an interesting collection of works all done by artists born in Chester and collated by Adam Carr.
If you are a lover of contemporary art, Rome is a fabulous city to visit. Certainly not overshadowed by its strong artistic heritage and justly famous works of more ancient art, the contemporary scene in the city is thriving. The above museums are three of the ‘must sees’ in Rome but there are many more besides.
How to Get to Rome
Of course you can get to the city of Rome easily and whether you decide to fly or go by train, the transport links are convenient. Trains come into Rome from many of the major Italian cities including Florence, Naples and Venice, and Rome’s two airports are within 30km of the city centre.
We at Shuttle Direct run Rome airport shuttles from both airports but Rome Fiumicino is perhaps the more popular of the two. For convenient, reliable and competitively priced transfers into the city, we are the number one choice. We have an extensive fleet of vehicles and experienced drivers who want to help get your holiday off to a good start. Book your Rome airport shuttles in advance and as soon as you have collected your bags, you can be on your way to your hotel in the magnificent city centre. You can book shared or private transfers, depending on what suits you and your travel group.
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Where to Stay
Hotel Italia – This bright and airy budget option in Rome is conveniently located close to the centre of the city. With delightful, simply decorated rooms featuring Wi-Fi, TV, air conditioning and en suite facilities, Hotel Italia is comfortable and a reliable choice for those looking for something less expensive. Every morning you can enjoy breakfast at the hotel and the helpful staff is on hand 24 hours a day to offer advice and recommendations.
Princeps Boutique Hotel – Looking to spend a little more on your bed for the duration of your stay in Rome, then Princeps Boutique Hotel is a good mid-range choice. Elegant rooms have soundproofed walls, free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, minibar and Kettle. En suite marble bathrooms complete with luxury toiletries top off the added extras. Every day a buffet breakfast is served offering a continental style feast.
Grand Hotel Plaza – Made famous by its role in several films, this stunning hotel in the centre of Rome is sophisticated and elegant. Characteristic high ceilings complement the marble in the bathrooms and the hotel combines modern features with many of its original ones. Grand Hotel Plaza is our choice of top end accommodation and with air-conditioned rooms, private terraces, wonderful views and a fabulous bar that offers excellent city panoramas it is easy to see why. You can also enjoy an American style breakfast here every morning. Located close to the main shopping area, this hotel is ideal for those looking to splash some cash.
