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Galleria Estense

4.7
·2k reviews·Modena, Italy

A treasure trove of 14th-18th c. Italian art and Egyptian artifacts in Modena's historic heart.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Nuova illuminazione in Galleria

Galleria Estense

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A treasure trove of 14th-18th c. Italian art and Egyptian artifacts in Modena's historic heart.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Wonderful gallery with a lot of really good paintings and a great selection of Guercino paintings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry for Minors

Kids under 18 get in free! A great deal for families visiting Modena.

❄️ Stay Cool Inside

The air conditioning is strong, a welcome relief on hot Modena days.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Masterpieces of Italian Art

Masterpieces of Italian Art

Main Galleries

Admire works by de Roberti, Tintoretto, Velasquez, and Veronese. A true feast for art lovers.

Reddit
Ancient Egyptian Collection

Ancient Egyptian Collection

Egyptian Wing

Discover over 150 rare artifacts, offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life.

Instagram
Terracotta Sculptures

Terracotta Sculptures

Guandalini Kabaivanska Donation

Explore a stunning collection of Baroque terracotta sculptures, a unique artistic treasure.

Instagram
The Library

The Library

Library Hall

A beautiful space showcasing the Este family's literary heritage.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Modena can get warm, so aim for cooler mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially if you want a more intimate experience with the art. Reddit

Focus Your Visit

While the Galleria Estense is a gem, much of the original Este collection is in Dresden. Focus on the impressive Italian paintings, sculptures, and unique Egyptian artifacts on display here. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Escape the midday heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Así es el Museo Ferrari en Modena, Italia 🇮🇹 #Ferrari #museoferrari #superautos #ferrarif1 #formula1 #f40 #carsoftiktok #supercars #modena
@bayardios
29.9K likes • 265.3K views

🎯 Free Entry for Minors

Kids under 18 get in free! A great deal for families visiting Modena. Reddit

❄️ Stay Cool Inside

The air conditioning is strong, a welcome relief on hot Modena days. Reddit

Anche solo le crescentine valgono il viaggio 😋 @Edoardo&Martina | Travelcouple alla scoperta di Modena, seguendo i suggerimenti della community 💡 #ArtCities #inEmiliaRomagna #Modena #consiglidiviaggio #cosafareamodena
@inemiliaromagna
6.7K likes • 135.8K views
Il Ministro della Cultura Alessandro Giuli oggi in visita alla Galleria Estense. Un onore poterlo accompagnare e poter scambiare due chiacchiere con lui sulla valorizzazione del nostro patrimonio, che abbiamo il dovere di difendere ma soprattutto di valorizzare. L’Italia è uno scrigno di bellezza che tutto il mondo ci invidia. Questo governo sta facendo tantissimo per portare una rivoluzione m...
arlettiannalisa
72 likes • 1.6K views

🚻 Clean Restrooms Available

Find clean and accessible bathrooms, a rare find in Modena! Reddit

⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes

You'll need about an hour to fully appreciate the diverse collections. Reddit

Il 27 maggio alla Galleria Estense di Modena abbiamo lanciato le #MembershipCard delle Gallerie Estensi con un ospite d’eccezione! 🤩 Tra le tante persone presenti, abbiamo chiesto a Filippo Magnini @filomagno82 di dirci la sua 🏊‍♂️ Al link in bio trovate tutte le informazioni per acquistare le membership card delle #GallerieEstensi. Vi aspettiamo in famiglia! 💗 #card #museo #cultura #museum #a...
gallerie.estensi
307 likes • 7.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry for Minors

Kids under 18 get in free! A great deal for families visiting Modena. Reddit

❄️ Stay Cool Inside

The air conditioning is strong, a welcome relief on hot Modena days. Reddit

🚻 Clean Restrooms Available

Find clean and accessible bathrooms, a rare find in Modena! Reddit

⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes

You'll need about an hour to fully appreciate the diverse collections. Reddit

🏛️ Explore All Four Museums

The Galleria Estense is part of a complex with four museums. Ask about combined tickets! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Galleria Estense for its impressive collection of Italian art, including works by masters like Tintoretto and Velasquez, and its unique Egyptian artifacts. The strong air conditioning and free restrooms are highlighted as significant comforts. While some note that the core collection is in Dresden, the Modena gallery is still considered a worthwhile and well-organized visit, offering a peaceful art experience.

"We were in Modena for a few hours, so we decided to stop by. The AC was very strong, which was a relief since it happened to be a very hot day.

Entry is free for minors (under 18), €2 for people aged 18-25, and €6 for normal visitors. There are also free (and clean) bathrooms, which are very hard to find in Modena!

I easily spent 45-60 minutes inside! The gallery has a small collection of Egyptian artifacts and many terracotta sculptures, oil paintings, marble busts and more. It has a good selection of religious art too."

Chloé Vu

"Wonderful gallery with a lot of really good paintings. Imagine how great the famous Estense collections were before Napoleon looted them The library is also worth a visit."

Gerhard Bergauer

"Well organized modern gallery with a collection of some note, though you’ll have to travel to Dresden to see the heart of the collection, which was sold off in the 18th century. Nonetheless you can see masterworks by de Roberti, Tintoretto, Velasquez, Veronese, Bassano, Dossi, Spada, a great selection of Guercino paintings, and probably the world’s largest collection of Lelio Orsi paintings."

Nathan Eddy

What People Like

Impressive art collection
Egyptian artifacts
Air conditioning

What People Dislike

Core collection elsewhere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Galleria Estense is centrally located in Modena, making it easily accessible on foot from Piazza Grande and other main attractions. If arriving by car, look for parking garages in the city center. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops near the museum. TikTok

While both are in Modena, the Galleria Estense is in the historic city center, whereas the Museo Enzo Ferrari is a bit further out. You can easily visit both in a day, perhaps using local buses or a short taxi ride between them. TikTok+1

Yes, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from the Modena train station to the Galleria Estense. The route is straightforward and takes you through the charming streets of the city. TikTok

Several paid parking garages are available in Modena's city center, within walking distance of the Galleria Estense. Consider parking at the Mercato Sant'Antonio or Piazza Matteotti garages. TikTok

Absolutely! Its central location makes it an ideal starting point to explore Modena's historic center, including Piazza Grande, the Duomo, and the Ghirlandina tower. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is free for visitors under 18. Those aged 18-25 pay a reduced fee of €2, and the standard adult ticket is €6. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee entry and avoid queues. Instagram

Entry is free for minors (under 18). Keep an eye out for potential special event days or membership benefits that might offer discounts or free access. InstagramReddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Galleria Estense website before your visit. Generally, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, with potential closures on Mondays and public holidays. TikTok

The Galleria Estense offers Membership Cards which provide benefits like free entry and discounts. Check their website for details on current membership options. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend between 45 to 60 minutes exploring the collections. If you plan to delve deeper or visit the library, allow a bit more time. Reddit

Yes, the gallery is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable escape from the heat, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Guided tours may be available, especially for groups or during special exhibitions. It's advisable to inquire in advance or check the museum's schedule for any public tours. Reddit

The gallery features a significant collection of Italian paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries, sculptures, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and a notable library. InstagramReddit+1

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed without flash. However, it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff regarding photography policies, especially for certain exhibits. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the Galleria Estense. However, numerous cafes, trattorias, and restaurants are located just outside in Modena's historic center. TikTok

Modena is famous for its balsamic vinegar, tortellini, and crescentine. You'll find many excellent places to try these local specialties in the vicinity of the gallery. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Modena's culinary scene is diverse, and you can find restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff. TikTok

For authentic balsamic vinegar, consider visiting an 'acetaia' (balsamic vinegar producer) or look for shops specializing in traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena's city center. Instagram

Yes, the streets surrounding Galleria Estense are dotted with charming cafes perfect for a quick espresso or a pastry break. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The grand halls, intricate sculptures, and well-preserved paintings offer numerous beautiful photo opportunities. The library is also a visually stunning area. Instagram

No, flash photography is generally not permitted inside the gallery to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signs or ask museum staff. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens would be ideal. Many visitors use their smartphones effectively, especially with good lighting. TikTok

Drone photography is typically prohibited in urban areas and around cultural heritage sites like Galleria Estense due to safety and privacy regulations. TikTok

Yes, the exterior of the Galleria Estense and its surrounding architecture are excellent for photography. Capture its historical facade and the charm of Modena's streets. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Galleria Estense is a great option for families, especially since children under 18 get in for free! Reddit The Egyptian collection offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history that can capture young imaginations. Instagram While the art itself might require some explanation, the manageable size of the collection and the strong air conditioning make it a comfortable visit even on a hot day. Reddit Look for interactive elements or guided tours that might be tailored for younger audiences. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

With free entry for those under 18 and a low €2 fee for young adults (18-25), Galleria Estense is incredibly budget-friendly. Reddit The standard ticket price of €6 is also very reasonable for the quality of art and artifacts on display. Reddit Plus, the availability of free and clean restrooms is a significant bonus for budget-conscious travelers in Modena. Reddit

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

While Galleria Estense focuses on fine art, Modena is synonymous with Ferrari. Combine your visit to the gallery with a trip to the Museo Enzo Ferrari to get your automotive fix. TikTok+1 The Galleria Estense offers a cultural counterpoint to the high-octane world of racing, providing a well-rounded Modena experience. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Este Collection: A Storied Past

The Galleria Estense houses a significant portion of the art collection amassed by the Este family, who ruled Modena for centuries. This collection was once one of Europe's most important. However, a substantial part of it was sold off in the 18th century to fund the Duke's debts, with many masterpieces finding their way to Dresden, Germany. Reddit

Despite this historical dispersal, the Galleria Estense in Modena still boasts an impressive array of Italian paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. It offers a unique window into the Este family's patronage and the artistic trends of their era. The current display focuses on works that remained in Modena, providing a rich artistic experience. Reddit

Visitors can explore works by renowned artists such as Tintoretto, Veronese, and Velázquez, alongside significant collections of religious art and ancient Egyptian artifacts. The gallery's layout is modern and well-organized, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the historical treasures within. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the Art: Modena's Charm

While the Galleria Estense is a major draw, Modena itself offers a wealth of experiences that complement a visit to the gallery. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its Romanesque architecture, most notably the stunning Duomo and its iconic bell tower, the Ghirlandina. TikTok

Modena is also globally renowned as the birthplace of Ferrari and a hub for automotive excellence. The Museo Enzo Ferrari is a must-visit for car enthusiasts, showcasing the history and iconic models of the legendary brand. TikTok+1 Food lovers will find themselves in paradise, with Modena being the culinary capital of Emilia-Romagna, famous for its traditional balsamic vinegar, tortellini, and Parmigiano Reggiano. TikTokInstagram

Exploring Modena on foot allows you to discover hidden courtyards, charming piazzas, and local artisan shops. The city's relaxed atmosphere, combined with its rich cultural and gastronomic offerings, makes it a delightful destination for a day trip or a longer stay. TikTok+1

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Galleria Estense frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight specific aspects of its collection or explore new artistic themes. These exhibitions often bring together unique pieces and offer fresh perspectives on art history. For instance, past exhibitions have showcased Baroque terracotta sculptures from the Guandalini Kabaivanska donation and even delved into ancient Egyptian history with artifacts from the Este collections and loans from the Museo Egizio of Turin. Instagram+1

Beyond visual arts, the Galleria Estense also serves as a venue for cultural events, including musical performances. The 'Grandezze & Meraviglie' festival, for example, has featured concerts within the gallery, transforming the historic space into an intimate performance venue. Instagram These events provide a unique opportunity to experience the gallery in a different light and engage with its heritage through various art forms. Instagram

To stay updated on current exhibitions and upcoming events, it's recommended to check the official Galleria Estense website or their social media channels. This will help you plan your visit to coincide with any special happenings that might interest you. Instagram+1

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