The Dorias are a traditional Roman family that still keep their palazzo in the Italian capital as a private residence. It is one of the few mansions that have not been converted into museums, public institutions or art galleries. The Doria are also a very wealthy family and have collected a lot of art over time.
El Palazzo Doria Pamphili It is very large and occupies a whole block, with its main entrance on the Via del Corso, near the famous Piazza Navona. Part of this elegant courtyard mansion is private, but there are some rooms that are open to the public. These rooms are on the main floor and there are some others that are rented for businesses. Among the works of art kept here is a fabulous work by Caravaggio called The weeping cupcake or the Penitent Magdalene.
Caravaggio made this painting in 1596 as part of a group of works that were destined to decorate the rooms of Cardinal Francesco del Monte, then his patron. A prostitute was the model, a girl who years later was found dead in the Tiber River. At that time Caravaggio shared models and costumes with other painters and art experts say that the dress of his penitent magdalene was borrowed.
The penitent Magdalene or Crying Magdalene was made in oil in the Baroque style. It measures 122 centimeters by 5 cm. Today this gallery in rome offers a guided tour with concert included, in English, about Caravaggio and his works. The appointment is every Saturday, not in August, yes, at 11 am. The general price is 12 euros and the gallery is open every day between 9 am and 7 pm.