Musei Civici agli Eremitani Padova
Padova's civic museums house remarkable Roman artifacts and Italian art, including masterpieces near the famed Scrovegni Chapel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Musei Civici agli Eremitani Padova
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Padova's civic museums house remarkable Roman artifacts and Italian art, including masterpieces near the famed Scrovegni Chapel.
"An excellent collection of archaeological artifacts and Italian art, highly recommended."
Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
Tickets for the adjacent Scrovegni Chapel are essential and sell out quickly. Book online in advance! :ticket:
Translate Descriptions
Most exhibit descriptions are in Italian. Use a translation app or phrasebook for a richer experience. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scrovegni Chapel Frescoes
Adjacent to the Musei Civici
Witness Giotto's breathtaking 14th-century frescoes, a masterpiece of Western art. Book tickets early!
Roman and Pre-Roman Artifacts
Archaeological Section
Explore a significant collection of ancient artifacts, offering a glimpse into the region's early history.
14th-18th Century Italian Art
Art Galleries
Admire works by masters like Giotto, Bellini, and Tintoretto, showcasing centuries of Italian artistic talent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Scrovegni Chapel Tickets in Advance
Prepare for Italian-Only Descriptions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
Tickets for the adjacent Scrovegni Chapel are essential and sell out quickly. Book online in advance! :ticket:
Translate Descriptions
Most exhibit descriptions are in Italian. Use a translation app or phrasebook for a richer experience. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum is extensive, so comfortable footwear is key for exploring all the collections. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Free Entry Days
Look out for special free entry days for residents and students, often announced on social media. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Scrovegni Chapel Early
Tickets for the adjacent Scrovegni Chapel are essential and sell out quickly. Book online in advance! :ticket:
Translate Descriptions
Most exhibit descriptions are in Italian. Use a translation app or phrasebook for a richer experience. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum is extensive, so comfortable footwear is key for exploring all the collections. :athletic_shoe:
Check for Free Entry Days
Look out for special free entry days for residents and students, often announced on social media. :moneywithwings:
Combine with Arena Gardens
The museum is next to the Arena Gardens, a lovely spot for a stroll after your visit. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Musei Civici agli Eremitani for its excellent collections of archaeological finds and Italian art, including works by masters like Giotto and Tintoretto. However, a significant drawback is the lack of English descriptions for exhibits, which can hinder understanding for international tourists. Some also find the presentation style traditional and suggest a need for modern technological updates. +1
"Seriously... Such a big place and NO ENGLISH descriptions. Translating everything on phone is impossible for place this big. Such a shame in a tourists place like Padova! Especially that ticket is super expensive. Also "models", not a real things to see."
Olga .Olga
"An excellent collection of finds and excavated material, presented in a reasonably logical way. The museum is traditional, in that it is static with little or no recreation of past local cultures. No visit map or audio guide available. Investment is needed in new museum presentation technology and techniques."
Peter Twinn
"Excellent collection of archaeological artifacts and Italian art. You can find works of Giotto, Guariento, Bellini, Vivarini, Tintoretto and many others. Highly recommended"
sibeaster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Musei Civici agli Eremitani are centrally located in Padova, making them easily accessible. Many visitors arrive on foot from other city attractions. If coming from further afield, consider public transport like buses that stop nearby. Parking can be challenging in the city center, so public transport or walking is often recommended.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Musei Civici agli Eremitani can be limited and expensive. It's advisable to look for parking garages a short walk away, such as those near Piazza Mazzini or Piazza dei Signori.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's always best to check the official website for the most current information. Some social media posts mention free entry days for residents and students, so keep an eye out for those promotions.
While not always mandatory for the museum itself, booking tickets for the adjacent Scrovegni Chapel is highly recommended and often required due to timed entry slots. It's wise to book both together if possible to ensure access.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ on public holidays. It's essential to check the official museum website or local tourism sites for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, there are often special offers. For example, some posts highlight free entry for residents and students on certain days, and even free entry for women on International Women's Day (March 8th).
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum houses a rich collection of archaeological finds from the Roman and pre-Roman periods, as well as significant Italian art from the 14th to 18th centuries, including works by Giotto, Bellini, and Tintoretto. +1
Unfortunately, many visitors report that exhibit descriptions are primarily in Italian. Bringing a translation app or a phrasebook is highly recommended to fully appreciate the collections.
Based on visitor feedback, traditional audio guides or detailed maps might not be readily available. Visitors often rely on their phones for translation or general information about the exhibits.
The museum is quite extensive. While some visitors might spend just 20 minutes if waiting for the Scrovegni Chapel, a thorough exploration of the collections could easily take 1-2 hours or more.
The Sala del Romanino is a notable section within the Musei Civici agli Eremitani, often highlighted for its sculptures and as an entry point to specific collections.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have extensive dining facilities, the surrounding area in Padova is filled with cafes and restaurants. One TikTok mentions 'Lob's' in Piazza Eremitani for a meal.
The area around Piazza Eremitani and the nearby piazzas like Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza della Frutta offer numerous options for dining, from quick bites to more formal meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary within museums. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but check specific exhibit rules.
The archaeological sections with ancient artifacts and the art galleries featuring notable paintings and sculptures offer great photographic opportunities. The exterior architecture and the adjacent Arena Gardens are also picturesque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, combining a visit with the adjacent Arena Gardens offers a nice break for children to run around. The Scrovegni Chapel, while a must-see, has strict time limits and requires quiet contemplation, which might be difficult for very young children. Plan your visit strategically, perhaps focusing on specific sections that might capture their interest most, and be prepared for a more adult-oriented experience.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
For a truly immersive experience, be prepared to research key pieces or artists beforehand or utilize translation tools, as detailed English descriptions are scarce. The adjacent Scrovegni Chapel is an absolute highlight, offering a profound encounter with Giotto's groundbreaking frescoes. This complex is a cornerstone for understanding the artistic and historical evolution of Padova and the Veneto.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Venice
Allocate at least a few hours to explore the museum's diverse collections, from ancient artifacts to Renaissance art. Remember the language barrier for descriptions and plan accordingly. The central location makes it easy to combine with other Padova highlights like Prato della Valle or the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, ensuring a fulfilling day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Scrovegni Chapel
Due to its immense artistic value and fragility, access to the chapel is strictly controlled. Visitors are admitted in small groups for a limited time (typically 15-20 minutes) to preserve the frescoes. Booking tickets well in advance is absolutely crucial, as they often sell out weeks or even months ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
When planning your visit, remember that the Scrovegni Chapel ticket often includes entry to the Musei Civici agli Eremitani, or vice versa, depending on the ticket package. Confirm this when booking to maximize your visit. The proximity of the chapel to the museum allows for a seamless transition between these two significant cultural sites.
Exploring the Archaeological Collections
One of the highlights is the display of original Roman pavements, some of which are remarkably well-preserved. These intricate mosaics and stone floors provide insight into the architectural sophistication of the Roman era. While the descriptions are predominantly in Italian, the visual impact of these ancient objects is powerful, allowing visitors to appreciate their historical significance even without full linguistic comprehension.
This section is particularly interesting for those with a keen interest in ancient history and archaeology. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the historical layers of Padova, from its earliest settlements through to its Roman prominence. The museum's presentation, while traditional, allows for a focused study of these important historical remnants.
Artistic Treasures: From Giotto to Tintoretto
Key artists represented include Giotto, whose influence is felt not only in the nearby chapel but also through other works, as well as masters like Jacopo Bellini, the Vivarini family, and Tintoretto. These pieces provide a rich tapestry of Renaissance and Baroque art, allowing art enthusiasts to engage with masterpieces that have shaped art history. The museum's commitment to preserving and displaying these works makes it a vital cultural institution in Padova.
While the museum's presentation style is described as traditional, the quality and breadth of the art collection are consistently praised. It offers a valuable opportunity to see significant artworks outside of the major galleries, providing a more intimate viewing experience. For those interested in Italian art history, this collection is a compelling reason to visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit