The exhibition
From May 7 to June 29, the Palazzo Esposizioni Roma hosts one of the most anticipated events in the city’s cultural calendar. The World Press Photo Exhibition 2026 showcases a powerful selection of award-winning images that document the most significant global events of our time, right in the heart of Rome.
Founded in 1955 and promoted by the World Press Photo Foundation, this prestigious exhibition honors the world’s leading professional photographers each year. Now in its 69th edition, the show presents a remarkable collection of finalist works, offering visitors an authentic and thought-provoking insight into contemporary global issues.
For the 2026 edition, more than 57,000 photographs were submitted by 3,747 photographers from 141 countries. A total of 42 projects were selected across three main categories (single images, photo stories, and long-term projects) representing different regions including Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa and Oceania.
The exhibition explores some of today’s most urgent topics, such as climate change, international conflicts and geopolitical shifts, while also highlighting stories of resilience, identity and human rights. The prestigious Photo of the Year award was given to Separated by ICE by Carol Guzy, a powerful image portraying a family separation within the U.S. immigration system.
Other standout finalists include Aid Emergency in Gaza by Saber Nuraldin and The Trials of the Achi Women by Victor J. Blue, both striking visual narratives that capture dignity, struggle and the pursuit of justice in crisis-affected communities.
The exhibition is promoted by the City of Rome’s Department of Culture and Azienda Speciale Palaexpo, in collaboration with 10b Photography.
Don’t miss the World Press Photo Exhibition 2026 in Rome and discover the floor dedicated to photography at 47 Boutique Hotel.
Discover more exhibitions and events
The World Press Photo Exhibition 2026 is on view at the Palazzo Esposizioni Roma until June 29. The annual exhibition celebrates the very best in international photojournalism.
Vasari and Rome: the exhibition at Musei Capitolini marks the 450th anniversary of Giorgio Vasari’s death and explores his deep connection with the Eternal City.
The Ara Pacis hosts an unmissable event. Until December 31, 2026, you can enjoy the immersive experience "The Ara Reveals Itself."
Hokusai in Rome. Until June 29, Palazzo Bonaparte hosts an exhibition dedicated to the master of Japanese art.
Constantin Brâncuși exhibition in Rome 2026 at Trajan’s Market: a journey through modern sculpture, art, history, and innovation.
Robert Doisneau in Rome at Museo del Genio. Over 140 shots tell the story of 20th-century Paris through the lens of the French photographer.
Caravaggio and the masters of light in Rome at the Museo Storico della Fanteria. Explore masterpieces inspired by the Italian painter.
From Vienna to Rome: an exhibition showcasing royal family masterpieces from the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.
The last Matisse – Paper morphologies will be on display at the Museo Storico della Fanteria until June 28, 2026, offering one of the most remarkable art exhibitions in Rome in 2026.
Magic Lanterns. Photographs from the Valerio De Paolis Collection will be on display at the Museo Carlo Bilotti until September 6, 2026.