Discover Naples: Sunday at the museum, the list of free museums in the city

Naples is a city rich in history, culture and art, a true treasure chest that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. With its crowded streets, the scents of traditional cuisine and the lively atmosphere, Naples offers a unique tourist experience. But beyond its architectural beauty and breathtaking views, the city is also an important cultural center, with a wide range of museums that tell its history and artistic heritage.

An initiative that makes culture even more accessible is “Sunday at the Museum”, a project that allows visitors to enter numerous museums for free, every first Sunday of the month. This opportunity not only makes art and culture accessible to all, but also invites Neapolitans and tourists to discover the hidden treasures of the city.

In this article, we will explore ten must-see museums that can be visited at no cost during Museum Sunday. From the magnificence of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses some of the most significant finds of Greek and Roman art, to the splendid collection of the Capodimonte Museum, located in a royal palace surrounded by an enchanting park, each museum offers a unique and fascinating.

We will also discover the MADRE Museum, a point of reference for contemporary art, and the Certosa and Museum of San Martino, where history and spirituality intertwine. Visitors will be able to admire the precious collection of the Treasure Museum of San Gennaro, the charm of the Palazzo Reale Museum, and the elegance of the Pignatelli Museum, just to name a few. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Naples and discover its cultural heritage, without spending a cent.

National Archaeological Museum of Naples

Description

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most important archaeological museums in Italy and in the world. Located in the city of Naples, the museum houses a vast collection of archaeological finds from the surrounding region, including Pompeii, Herculaneum and other Roman cities.

Collections

The museum's collections include statues, mosaics, frescoes, bronze and ceramic objects, as well as artifacts from ancient cities buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Among the most famous pieces are the mosaic of Alexander the Great and the Farnese Bull, a marble sculpture depicting a bull.

History

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples was founded in 1777 by Charles of Bourbon, king of Naples, and is housed in an eighteenth-century building that was originally a barracks. The museum has been expanded and renovated over the years, becoming an essential stop for lovers of art and ancient history.

Visit

The museum is open to the public every day except Tuesday, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. It is advisable to dedicate at least half a day to the visit, to be able to admire all the collections calmly and without haste. It is also possible to book guided tours to learn more about the exhibits on display.

Capodimonte Museum

General information

The Capodimonte Museum is one of the main cultural attractions of Naples, located inside an 18th century royal palace surrounded by a large park. This museum is famous for its rich collection of works of art ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics and furniture.

Main collections

One of the main attractions of the Capodimonte Museum is the National Gallery, which houses works by great artists such as Caravaggio, Titian, Raphael, Botticelli and many others. Furthermore, the museum boasts a vast collection of porcelain and furnishings from the Bourbon royal residences.

Events and temporary exhibitions

The Capodimonte Museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions and cultural events that add further value to the visit. These exhibitions may include works by contemporary artists or specific themes related to the history of art.

Times and prices

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with variable hours depending on the season. The cost of the ticket varies depending on the ongoing exhibitions and the discounts available for students and groups. It is advisable to always check the museum's official website for updated information on opening times and prices.

How to get there

The Capodimonte Museum is easily reachable by public transport, in particular with metro line 1 which takes you directly to the Museum station. Alternatively, you can reach the museum by bus or taxi, and there is also parking available for those arriving by car.

Museo MADRE

General information

The MADRE Museum, acronym for Donnaregina Museum of Contemporary Art, is one of the most important contemporary art museums in Naples. It is located inside Palazzo Donnaregina, an ancient 13th century monastery located in the historic center of the city. The museum was inaugurated in 2005 and houses a permanent collection of works by contemporary Italian and international artists.

Collection

The MADRE Museum collection includes works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Joseph Beuys, Anish Kapoor, Jeff Koons, Francesco Clemente, Jannis Kounellis and many others. The works range from paintings and sculptures to installations and video works, offering a complete overview of contemporary artistic production. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of emerging and established artists, which always make the visit interesting and stimulating.

Events and activities

The MADRE Museum regularly organizes events, conferences, workshops and guided tours to involve the public and promote knowledge of contemporary art. Among the activities offered there are workshops for children, meetings with artists and screenings of art-related films. The museum is also home to live performances and shows, which enrich the cultural experience offered to visitors.

Architecture

The MADRE Museum also stands out for its architecture, which combines the ancient and the modern in a fascinating union. The historic building has been restored and expanded with contemporary interventions, creating a unique and evocative exhibition space. The large spaces and different rooms allow you to fully enjoy the works of art on display, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and contemplation.

In conclusion, the MADRE Museum is an essential stop for lovers of contemporary art who visit Naples. With its rich collection, the cultural activities offered and the suggestive location, the museum offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is worth living.

Certosa and Museum of San Martino

Description

The Certosa di San Martino is one of the most evocative and fascinating places in Naples. Located on the Vomero hill, it offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Gulf of Naples. Founded in the 14th century, the Charterhouse has been transformed into a museum which preserves a rich collection of works of art and historical objects.

Collections

Inside the Certosa and the Museum of San Martino it is possible to admire works by artists such as Luca Giordano, Francesco Solimena and Jusepe de Ribera. Among the most important collections stands out that of nativity scenes, considered one of the richest in the world. In addition to works of art, the museum also houses a section dedicated to the history of the Certosa and the life of the monks who lived there.

Visit

To visit the Certosa and the Museum of San Martino it is advisable to dedicate at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate all the works and rooms of the structure. During the visit it is possible to walk in the gardens of the Certosa and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

In conclusion, the Certosa and the Museum of San Martino are an unmissable place for those visiting Naples, where art, history and landscape come together in a unique and unforgettable experience.

Treasure Museum of San Gennaro

Description

The Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro is located inside the Cathedral of Naples, one of the main places of worship in the city. This museum houses a vast collection of jewels, sacred vestments and works of art that have been donated to the Cathedral over the centuries in honor of San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples.

Collections

The museum has three different sections that show the treasures linked to the cult of San Gennaro. The first section is dedicated to the saint's precious relics, including the famous "treasure of San Gennaro" made up of his head, two ampoules containing his blood and other finds. The second section displays the jewels and liturgical vestments donated to the Cathedral by the faithful over the centuries. Finally, the third section shows paintings and sculptures depicting the life and cult of San Gennaro.

Practical information

The Treasure Museum of San Gennaro is open every day except Tuesday, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. Entrance is paid and allows visitors to admire the treasures of the Cathedral of Naples up close. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist periods, to avoid long queues at the entrance.

Royal Palace Museum

Description

The Royal Palace Museum is one of the main museums in Naples, located inside the Royal Palace of Naples, the ancient residence of the Bourbon rulers. The museum houses a vast collection of works of art ranging from the medieval period up to the 19th century, showcasing the city's rich history and culture.

Collections

The collections of the Royal Palace Museum include paintings, sculptures, furniture, porcelain, fabrics and decorative art objects coming both from the royal collections and from subsequent donations and acquisitions. Among the most famous works on display are paintings by artists such as Caravaggio, Titian, Ribera, and Luca Giordano, as well as sculptures by artists such as Canova and Thorvaldsen.

Exhibitions and Events

In addition to the permanent collection, the Palazzo Reale Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events that offer visitors the opportunity to delve into specific themes related to the art and history of the city of Naples. Recent exhibitions have included exhibitions on contemporary artists, thematic exhibitions on specific historical periods, and exhibitions exploring contemporary art and its connections to history and tradition.

Timetables and Tickets

The Royal Palace Museum is open every day except Wednesday, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. Entrance tickets are affordable and discounts are available for students, seniors and groups. It is advisable to check updated opening times and prices on the museum's official website before planning your visit.

The Palazzo Reale Museum is an essential stop for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the history and art of Naples, offering a fascinating journey through the centuries of history and culture of the city.

Gaetano Filangieri Civic Museum

General information

The Gaetano Filangieri Civic Museum is located in the heart of Naples, precisely in Palazzo Como, a historic 18th century building located in via Duomo. This museum is dedicated to the figure of Gaetano Filangieri, an 18th-century Neapolitan jurist and philosopher, and displays a vast collection of works of art, manuscripts, historical documents and personal objects that belonged to Filangieri.

Collections and exhibitions

Inside the museum it is possible to admire paintings, sculptures, furnishings, ancient books and objects of various kinds that tell the life and works of Gaetano Filangieri. Among the most significant works are the portraits of the jurist created by artists of the time, original manuscripts of his writings and historical documents that testify to his contribution to the culture and politics of his time.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events that delve deeper into the figure of Filangieri and the historical context in which he lived, offering visitors the opportunity to completely immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the time.

Timetables and practical information

The Gaetano Filangieri Civic Museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, with opening hours that vary depending on the time of year. It is advisable to consult the museum's official website to check opening hours and for any information on current exhibitions and scheduled events.

Entrance to the museum is subject to a fee, but discounts are available for students, seniors and organized groups. It is possible to book guided tours to learn more about the collections and participate in special events organized by the museum.

Pignatelli Museum

General information

The Pignatelli Museum is located in an elegant 18th century noble palace in the heart of Naples, near Piazza dei Martiri. The museum's collection includes works of art, antique furniture, porcelain and valuable objects that belonged to the Pignatelli family.

Collection

The Pignatelli Museum houses a rich collection of paintings, sculptures and art objects ranging from the 16th to the 19th century. Among the most important works there are paintings by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Luca Giordano and Salvator Rosa. Furthermore, the museum preserves a valuable collection of porcelain and antique furniture which testify to the luxury and taste of the nobles of the past.

Visit

The Pignatelli Museum offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and art of Naples through the frescoed rooms, decorated rooms and Italian gardens of the palace. During the visit it is possible to admire the original furnishings of the time and discover the daily life of the Neapolitan nobility.

The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions, conferences and cultural events to enrich the visitor experience. Furthermore, it is possible to book guided tours to learn more about the works on display and the history of the building.

In conclusion, the Pignatelli Museum is an unmissable stop for those who wish to discover the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Naples through the works and precious objects that testify to the city's noble past.

Villa Museum Floridiana

General information

The Villa Floridiana Museum is located inside the park of Villa Pignatelli in Naples. The villa, built in the 19th century in neoclassical style, houses a collection of works of art and historical artefacts that tell the story and culture of the city of Naples.

Collections and main works

The museum houses a rich collection of paintings, sculptures, furnishings and art objects ranging from the 15th to the 20th century. Among the most important works on display are paintings by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Titian and Van Dyck, as well as sculptures by Giacomo Serpotta and Giuseppe Sanmartino.

One of the main attractions of the museum is the collection of porcelain and ceramics, which includes fine pieces from different parts of the world. Furthermore, the museum preserves a section dedicated to the history of costume and furnishings, with period clothing and furnishings from important Neapolitan residences.

Timetables and practical information

The Villa Floridiana Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with variable hours depending on the season. Entrance is paid, but there are reductions for students, seniors and organized groups. For further information on opening hours and prices, you can consult the museum's official website.

The Villa Floridiana is easily accessible by public transport, as it is served by several bus lines and funiculars. Furthermore, the villa is located in a panoramic position which offers a splendid view of the bay of Naples, making the visit even more evocative and pleasant.