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How did Julius II’s art patronage contribute to the Vatican’s collection of ancient sculpture?

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Medallion depicting Pope Julius II — Julius II Julius II, contemporary medallion; in the coin collection of the Vatican Library.

Pope Julius II played a foundational role in the development of the Vatican’s world-renowned collection of antiquities. His commitment to the grandeur of the papacy led him to lay the groundwork for what would eventually become the Vatican Museums.

Specifically, the pontifical collection of ancient sculpture—which is now famously exhibited in the Pio-Clementino Museum—originated with the personal collection of Julius II. His patronage extended to architectural projects that supported these acquisitions, such as commissioning Donato Bramante to design the two galleries that form the Belvedere Court, which served as a setting for his growing collection of ancient works. Through these efforts, Julius II established a legacy of preserving and displaying classical art that remains a central feature of the Vatican today.12