Located in the Palazzo della Crocetta, the National Archaeological Museum of Florence is one of the most important museums in Italy. It houses a vast collection of Etruscan, Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artifacts, offering visitors a fascinating journey through ancient civilizations. Inaugurated in 1871, the museum features major works such as the Chimera of Arezzo, the François Vase, and an impressive Egyptian collection.

Highlights

  • The Chimera of Arezzo: a 4th-century BC bronze sculpture representing a mythological creature.
  • The François Vase: a 6th-century BC Greek black-figure krater decorated with mythological scenes.
  • The Egyptian collection: one of the richest in Italy, including mummies, sarcophagi, and everyday objects.
  • The Orator: a bronze statue of an Etruscan speaker in a Roman toga, dating from the 1st century BC.
  • The Tumulus Garden: an outdoor area with reconstructed Etruscan tombs, open on Saturday mornings.
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Visiting the Museum

The visit begins at the main entrance of the Palazzo della Crocetta, a historic building constructed for Maria Maddalena de’ Medici. Inside, visitors are welcomed by a large inner courtyard leading to the various exhibition rooms. The Egyptian collection is particularly remarkable, displaying sarcophagi, mummies, and everyday objects dating back several millennia.

The Etruscan galleries provide a fascinating insight into Etruscan civilization, with artifacts such as the Chimera of Arezzo and finely crafted bronze objects. The Roman section features sculptures, inscriptions, and daily life objects, illustrating life during the Roman era.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, allowing visitors to explore new aspects of ancient history. The Tumulus Garden, located outdoors, offers an immersive experience with reconstructed Etruscan tombs and a peaceful setting for reflection.

Visitors can also explore the ancient coin collection, an impressive collection of coins and ancient gems, among the largest and most prestigious in the world. The museum provides a detailed and informative experience for history and archaeology enthusiasts, with modern facilities and in-depth information to enhance the understanding of the displayed artifacts.

For a full experience, it is recommended to allocate approximately two hours to the visit, taking the time to appreciate the exhibition details and enjoy the interactive installations available.

Practical Information

Opening Hours and Tickets

  • Address: Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, 9b, 50122 Florence, Italy
  • Opening hours:
    • Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
    • Tuesday, Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Sunday: closed
  • Tickets:
    • General admission: €10
    • Reduced: €5 (for EU citizens aged 18-25)
    • Free: for under 18s, teachers, journalists, and people with disabilities
  • Exceptional closures: closed on January 1 and August 15

Further Resources

In the Florence Museums Category