5 must-see museums in Modena

Located about 20 kilometres from our agriturismo, Modena is a city rich in history, perfect for those who love art and culture. In addition to its countless architectural beauties, it boasts several museums that are worth a visit. We have selected five not to be missed. Let’s discover them together!

The Estense Gallery

If we talk about museums in Modena, we cannot fail to mention the Estense Gallery. Founded in 1854 by Francesco V of Austria-Este and located in the Palazzo dei Musei since 1894, it is one of the oldest and most important National Galleries in Italy. It houses the collection of works of art that belonged to the Dukes of Este, as well as a collection of works acquired later, over the last two centuries. It exhibits paintings, sculptures, art objects, drawings, bronzes, ceramics, medals, ivories and musical instruments. Among the works on display are Bernini’s bust of Francis I, Velázquez’s portrait of the Duke, El Greco’s triptych and paintings by Correggio, Tintoretto, Veronese, Guido Reni, Guercino and Salvator Rosa. It is also equipped with didactic and didactic apparatus and has an illustrated visitor’s guide-book.

The Civic Museum of Modena

Also housed in the Palazzo dei Musei is the Civic Museum of Modena. Founded in 1871, it expresses and represents the identity of Modena and its community. It gathers varied collections of archaeology, ethnology, art and handicrafts in an evocative setting. On display are ancient flint tools, ceramic pottery, weapons, tools, bronze jewellery, marbles, coins, artefacts, paintings, sculptures, musical and scientific instruments, horse harnesses, textiles, terracotta, leather, decorated paper, ceramics, gold and glass. Among the most interesting pieces are: the Niobidi slab, a Roman copy of an original by Phidias; and the sculpture of the Madonna di Piazza by Antonio Begarelli. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that further enrich the cultural offer.

The MEF – Enzo Ferrari Museum

The MEF – Enzo Ferrari Museum is not just a museum but an engaging and exciting spectacle. Opened in 2012, it is dedicated to the life and work of Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the car manufacturer. The museum consists of two structures. The first is the futuristic bonnet-shaped pavilion (designed by Czech architect Jan Kaplicky) where, in addition to admiring the many cars displayed like works of art on design platforms, it is possible to watch film screenings. The second is Enzo’s birthplace and his father’s historic workshop, perfectly restored, where there is a space dedicated to the engines that have made the history of the prancing horse. Among the many experiences offered to the public, do not miss the semi-professional driving simulator.

The Luciano Pavarotti House Museum

The Luciano Pavarotti House Museum is the place where the famous tenor lived the last years of his life. A visit allows you to discover the man behind the great artist. Located in the heart of the Modenese countryside, just outside the city towards the hills, it is still as the Maestro left it. It houses his personal belongings and holds memories of his days spent in the company of family, friends and students. On display are sumptuous stage costumes, photographs, videos, countless awards, unique memorabilia and cherished letters from friends such as Frank Sinatra, Bono and Princess Diana. For a more complete experience, download the app containing the guided tour.

The Cathedral Museums

The Museums of the Cathedral of Modena complete the visit to the Cathedral, allowing for a full understanding of its history and events. The museum itinerary is divided into three visiting areas. The first, the Lapidary Museum, brings together artefacts found during the restoration of the Romanesque church carried out in the late 19th and early 20th century. The second, the Cathedral Treasury, exhibits a precious artistic-liturgical apparatus dating from the Romanesque period to the 19th century. Finally, the third, Duomo e Ghirlandina: vicende e protagonisti (Cathedral and Ghirlandina: events and protagonists), allows visitors to learn about the main stages in the history of the monumental complex recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site in an interactive and engaging way.