Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Parma
Museum | Parma | Emilia-Romagna | Italy
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Parma, one of the oldest archaeological museums in Italy, was founded in 1760 and is located in the Palazzo della Pilotta in Parma. It offers a comprehensive insight into the history and culture of the region from prehistoric times to the Roman era.
History and Background
The museum was established by Don Filippo di Borbone to preserve the artifacts discovered during excavations in the Roman city of Veleia. Over the years, the collection has been expanded through finds from the surrounding area and acquisitions. Under the rule of Maria Luigia of Austria, the Duchess of Parma, Piacenza, and Guastalla, the museum underwent a significant expansion, especially with the addition of Egyptian, Etruscan, and Greek artifacts.
Collection and Exhibitions
The museum's exhibitions are organized thematically and chronologically, providing a deep insight into the history of the region:
- Prehistoric and protohistoric finds: Tools and artifacts from the Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods documenting the lives of early humans in the region.
- Etruscan and Ligurian artifacts: Objects representing the cultures of the Etruscans and Ligurians in the Po Valley, including ceramics, jewelry, and weapons.
- Roman finds: Sculptures, mosaics, coins, and everyday objects from the Roman era illustrating life in the ancient city of Parma.
- Egyptian collection: A significant collection of Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, vases, and papyrus fragments documenting trade relations and cultural influences between Egypt and the region.
- Numismatic collection: One of Italy's richest coin collections showcasing the development of coin minting from the Greek to Roman times.
Activities and Events
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum regularly organizes cultural events such as workshops, lectures, and temporary exhibitions to promote understanding and appreciation of the region's cultural heritage. A special highlight is the annual "Night of Archaeology," where the museum stays open late into the night and offers special tours and activities.
The Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Parma is therefore a significant place for the preservation and transmission of the region's cultural heritage, offering visitors a unique insight into the history and culture of Parma and its surroundings.
