Galleria Borghese expansion plan sparks controversy in Rome

Plans to expand the Galleria Borghese, one of Italy's most prestigious museums, have drawn sharp criticism from art historians and cultural associations. The expansion aims to accommodate more visitors and create new exhibition spaces, a conference hall, and service areas. However, no concrete design exists yet. In January, the museum commissioned Proger, an engineering firm, to finance and oversee the project, with a budget of €875,000. The new building would be erected near the current museum, on the edge of Villa Borghese park. Critics, including art historian Tomaso Montanari and groups Italia Nostra Roma and Bianchi Bandinelli, argue that any alteration would disrupt the historic harmony of the site. Montanari compared the plan to adding a floor to Brunelleschi's Duomo. The museum, which saw 630,759 visitors in 2025, currently limits entry to 360 people at a time for two-hour slots. The project is expected to begin in early 2027, with no timeline for construction. Rome's culture councilor Massimiliano Smeriglio defended the plan as a way to transform the gallery into a cultural hub, while deputy speaker Fabio Rampelli called it 'reckless.' A press conference is scheduled for May 18 to reveal more details.