The Borghese Gallery presents Beyond the Marble, a podcast illuminating the hidden treasures within the museum’s remarkable archaeological collection.

Whether strolling through the grand halls of the Galleria Borghese or glimpsing images in books and travel photos, have you noticed the exquisite ancient artifacts displayed on the museum's ground floor?

Alongside Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s extraordinary sculptures, these treasures tell their own fascinating stories. Yet, they are often overlooked by the audience, who tend to focus on the grand masterpieces of modern sculpture displayed at the center of each room.

Beyond the Marble invites listeners on a captivating journey into the Ancient world, revealing timeless tales from a vibrant past that continue to resonate today.

Originally created to make the archaeological collections accessible to visitors with visual impairments, the project evolved to include international visitors as well, giving them the chance to explore these collections beforehand and engage with the museum's archaeology in a richer, more immersive way.

This initiative ensures that everyone can experience the wonders of the Borghese archaeological collection.
To evoke vivid mental imagery, the artwork descriptions have been carefully developed in collaboration with Prof. Lucilla D'Antilio, a blind sculptor and professor.

The experience extends beyond the podcast itself, with tactile paths introduced within the museum, designed for both people with visual disabilities and sighted visitors.

These tours are enhanced by sculptor-made replicas, offering everyone the opportunity to engage with the artworks through touch.

We welcome listeners to share their impressions and engage in dialogue with the creators: Dr. Stefania Vannini, art historian and curator at the Ministry of Culture and Accessibility Coordinator at the Galleria Borghese, and Rasul Mojaverian, archaeologist.

For feedback and inquiries, please reach out via email at ga-bor.accessibilita@cultura.gov.it.

The narration is provided by actors Claire Palazzo and Marcus Marcelli.

The music is by Michael Levy. https://ancientlyre.com/