MAEC Museum Cortona
Discover Etruscan wonders and diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to modern art, in this meticulously curated museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
MAEC Museum Cortona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Etruscan wonders and diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to modern art, in this meticulously curated museum.
"Amazing!!! Impeccable exposition: lighting, restoration, and sequence are perfect."
Allocate 2-3 Hours ⏳
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum's 30 rooms and diverse collections.
Download the App 📱
Utilize the museum's app or audio guide for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Etruscan Chandelier
Etruscan Academy Collections
A stunning testament to ancient craftsmanship, this artifact offers a glimpse into the sophisticated artistry of the Etruscans.
Egyptian Section
Etruscan Academy Collections
Discover intriguing artifacts from ancient Egypt, showcasing the broader cultural connections and collections of the Etruscan Academy.
Gino Severini Works
Etruscan Academy Collections
Admire modern artistic contributions alongside ancient history, featuring works by the renowned Futurist painter Gino Severini.
Archaeological Finds
Recent Archaeological Discoveries
Explore recent discoveries that illustrate the Etruscan and Roman presence in the Cortona region, bringing history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Enhance Your Visit with Digital Guides
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate 2-3 Hours ⏳
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum's 30 rooms and diverse collections.
Download the App 📱
Utilize the museum's app or audio guide for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
Check for Special Exhibits 🖼️
The MAEC often hosts temporary exhibitions, like those on Signorelli or medieval lauda. 
Gift Shop Wishlist 🛍️
Some visitors wish for more replicas or art objects in the gift shop to take home.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate 2-3 Hours ⏳
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum's 30 rooms and diverse collections.
Download the App 📱
Utilize the museum's app or audio guide for a richer understanding of the exhibits.
Check for Special Exhibits 🖼️
The MAEC often hosts temporary exhibitions, like those on Signorelli or medieval lauda.
Gift Shop Wishlist 🛍️
Some visitors wish for more replicas or art objects in the gift shop to take home.
Etruscan History Focus 🏺
The museum excels at explaining Etruscan roots and their influence before Roman times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the MAEC Museum Cortona for its impeccable presentation and the wealth of knowledge it imparts, particularly regarding Etruscan history. The diverse collections, including Egyptian artifacts and works by Gino Severini, add significant value. While some wish for more souvenir options, the overall experience is highly recommended for its educational and aesthetic qualities.
"The superb and most astounding Archaeological museum of Tuscany! It describes local history from paleolithic times to XVIII centuries. Amont the artefacts there are famous Tabula Cortonensis (bronze tablet with Etruscan text), Etruscan bronze lamp and (suddenly) Tempietto Ginori (porcelain thing some Tuscanian lord tried to bribe new Austrian Great duke). And many Etruscan urns - I really like them!"
sibeaster
"This museum has many floors, and tells about the Etruscans long before the Roman Empire. Many other items to see too, plan on spending a few hours here in Cortona."
Bryan Donnelly
"This is a must stop to see what your ancestors did to survive and develop the world. The display is well done and worth the.price. You can download izzi app to let you know about the exhibits."
SAM Martinez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MAEC Museum is located in the heart of Cortona. If arriving by train, the nearest station is Arezzo, from which you can take a bus or taxi to Cortona. Many visitors find Cortona itself to be a charming Tuscan town worth exploring on foot once you arrive.
Parking in Cortona can be challenging due to its hilltop location and narrow streets. It's often best to park in designated lots outside the historic center and walk up.
Yes, MAEC Museum Cortona is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially if you're exploring the wider Tuscany region. It's easily accessible from nearby cities like Florence or Siena.
After your museum visit, take time to wander through Cortona's historic center, visit Piazza della Repubblica, and enjoy the scenic views.
While the museum offers audio guides, guided tours for the town of Cortona itself can enhance your understanding of its history and culture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special exhibitions. It's always recommended to check the official MAEC Museum Cortona website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission prices are generally reasonable and considered worth the experience by many visitors. Check the museum's official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or for special exhibitions, can save you time and guarantee entry.
In the past, the museum has implemented measures like requiring a 'green pass' for entry, but current requirements should be verified on their official channels.
Yes, the MAEC frequently hosts temporary exhibitions. Recent examples include shows on Signorelli and medieval lauda.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2 to 3 hours to fully appreciate the museum's extensive collections and approximately 30 rooms. +1
The museum is renowned for its Etruscan collections, including the Etruscan chandelier, as well as Egyptian artifacts, works by Gino Severini, and recent archaeological finds.
Yes, an audio guide is available for about 14 rooms, and some visitors mention using an app like 'izzi' for exhibit information. +1
The museum has multiple floors, which might present challenges for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
The museum is crucial for understanding the Etruscan civilization that predates the Roman Empire and their influence on the region.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's best to check for any specific restrictions at the entrance or on their website.
The Etruscan artifacts, particularly the chandelier, and the well-lit exhibition spaces offer great photographic opportunities. The overall presentation is often praised.
The detailed Etruscan artifacts and the curated displays of Gino Severini's work are often highlighted for their visual appeal.
The museum's lighting is frequently praised for being impeccable, which greatly enhances the viewing and photographic experience.
Professional photography equipment, including tripods, is usually not allowed without prior permission. Always adhere to the museum's guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+3 Consider using the audio guide or app to make the exhibits more interactive and understandable for younger visitors. 📚 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
+3🖼️ Art Lovers
+3 This inclusion offers a unique perspective on Italian art history, bridging ancient traditions with avant-garde movements. The exhibition design and lighting are consistently praised for their quality, ensuring that both ancient crafts and modern paintings are presented in the best possible light. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Etruscan Legacy at MAEC
+3 Visitors often express how much they learned about the Etruscans' impact on the region, providing context for the subsequent Roman control. Beyond the Etruscans, the museum also showcases the historical depth of Cortona, illustrating its evolution through different eras. The collections extend to include Roman artifacts, demonstrating the transition and integration of cultures. This layered history makes the MAEC a vital stop for anyone interested in the ancient roots of Italian civilization and the specific heritage of Tuscany.
Beyond Antiquity: Diverse Collections
+3 This unexpected inclusion adds another layer of intrigue to the museum experience, appealing to a wider range of historical interests.Furthermore, the museum proudly displays works by Gino Severini, a prominent figure of the Futurist movement.
+3 Integrating modern art alongside ancient artifacts creates a unique dialogue between different historical periods and artistic expressions. This juxtaposition is a testament to the museum's commitment to showcasing a comprehensive cultural narrative, from ancient civilizations to 20th-century art movements. The impeccable presentation and lighting across all exhibits are consistently praised, enhancing the appreciation of each piece. Enhancing Your Visit with Technology
While the WiFi signal might be inconsistent in the initial rooms, catching up with the audio guide or app later in your visit allows you to fully benefit from these tools.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit