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Naples National Archaeological Museum I Home to Frescoes from Herculaneum & Pompeii

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ADDRESS

Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Timings

9 AM - 7:30 PM

TICKETS

From € 25

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What is Naples National Archeological Museum ?

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples, situated in Naples, Italy, is a prominent institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing a rich array of archaeological treasures of Italy, Housed in a historic building, the museum boasts a diverse collection spanning multiple eras and civilizations, featuring sculptures, artifacts, and invaluable relics from antiquity.

Quick Facts About National Archeological Museum

Official Name: Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (National Archaeological Museum of Naples)
Location: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Naples, Italy
Date of Opening: 1750 (as the "Real Museo Borbonico," later transformed into the National Archaeological Museum)
Function: Archaeological Museum and Research Center
Number of Visitors per Year: Approximately 350,000
Collection Size: Houses over 2,500 artifacts and numerous antiquities from various ancient civilizations, including Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Plan Your Visit to National Archeological Museum in Naples

Opening Hours

General timings: Wednesday to Monday from 9 AM to 7:30 PM

Closed: Tuesdays, and on 1 January, and 25 December. It remains open on all other public holidays unless they fall on a Tuesday

Best time to visit: Early hours on a weekday.

Detailed National Archeological Museum Tiimngs

Location

Address: Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy

Find on Maps

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is located in the heart of Naples, Italy, housing a rich collection of ancient artifacts. Positioned within the historic district, it offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Nearest Metro Station: Piazza Museo

Directions to National Archeological Museum

What to see at the Naples National Archaeological Musuem

Egyptian Collection

The National Archaeological Museum in Naples houses a remarkable ancient Egyptian collection, renowned as one of the world's largest and most significant. Among its notable artifacts are the Naoforo Farnese, a striking basalt sculpture portraying a kneeling man with bent arms; the Charta Borgiana, a well-preserved ancient papyrus document; and the museum's oldest treasure, the exquisite gray diorite statue known as The Lady of Naples. This collection offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt.

Epigraphic Collection

The Epigraphic Collection at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples has a rich history, dating back to the 18th century. This extensive collection was curated through a combination of acquisitions from antiquarian markets and archaeological excavations. Spanning from the 6th century BC to the 2nd century AD, it offers a unique linguistic window into Central and Southern Italy. These inscriptions are inscribed in various languages, including Latin and other regional Italian dialects, providing valuable insights into the region's cultural and historical evolution.

Farnese Collection

The Farnese Collection, an illustrious Renaissance-era assemblage, finds its origins in the fervent acquisition endeavors of the influential Roman Farnese family. This remarkable collection was amassed through a multifaceted approach, involving antiquarian market transactions, confiscations, and archaeological excavations. These endeavors yielded precious marbles and sculptures that adorned the family's estates. The inception of the Farnese Collection can be traced back to Alexander Farnese, who later ascended to the papacy as Pope Paul III in 1534, solidifying its legacy.

Mosaics

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is home to a spectacular mosaic collection, primarily originating from the excavations in Pompeii and nearby Vesuvian cities. Among these masterpieces, the Alexander Mosaic stands out, vividly depicting the epic clash between Alexander the Great and Darius III of Persia in 100 BC. Another captivating mosaic in the collection captures the intense spectacle of a gladiator combat, offering a glimpse into the vibrant history and artistry of the a`ncient Roman world.

Secret Room

The National Archaeological Museum in Naples features the unique and intriguing Secret Room, which houses a collection of 250 sexually explicit artifacts discovered during excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. These objects, which have faced centuries of censorship and were once isolated from mainstream collections due to their provocative nature, shed light on the evolving societal norms and museum management. The Secret Room was reintroduced to the public in 2000, offering valuable insights into ancient Roman attitudes towards sexuality and erotica.

Numismatic Collection

The Numismatic Collection at the National Archaeological Museum boasts a comprehensive range of coins, tracing their history from the earliest minting in Magna Graecia to those issued during the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. These numismatic treasures were acquired through various means, including private collections like the Farnese, Borgia, and Santangelo holdings, as well as archaeological discoveries in the Vesuvian and Southern Italian regions, all contributing to the museum's rich heritage.

Brief History of National Archeological Museum

1616 - 1777: The building that would later be known as the National Archaeological Museum served as the seat of the University of Naples and a cavalry barracks as well.
Late 18th Century (Late 1700s): Charles III of Bourbon established the museum, originally known as the Real Museo Borbonico, driven by his interest in art and culture. He aimed to house antiquities inherited from his mother, Elisabetta Farnese, and the treasures from the recently discovered cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, both devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
19th Century (Early 1800s): Ferdinand VI, Charles III's son, further enriched the museum's collection by consolidating Elisabetta Farnese's Roman artifacts and Vesuvian findings within the Palazzo dei Studi.
Early 19th Century (Early 1800s): During the French domination in Naples, the first facilities for the museum were organized.
1815: With the return of the Bourbons, significant steps were taken toward establishing a true museum.
1860: Following the unification of Italy, the museum was officially named the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, marking a new chapter in its history.

Who Built the National Archeological Museum?

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples, originally known as the Real Museo Borbonico, was established by Charles III of Bourbon, who was the King of Naples in the late 18th century. Charles III played a crucial role in founding the museum, driven by his interest in art and culture. His vision was to house a collection of antiquities inherited from his mother, Elisabetta Farnese, and to showcase the extraordinary treasures discovered in the ancient cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, which had been devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Frequently Asked Questions About the National Archeological Museum in Naples

What is the National Archeological Museum ?

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is a renowned cultural institution in Italy, preserving and displaying a vast collection of ancient artifacts and archaeological treasures.

Which are some of the popular artworks at Naples National Archaeolgical Museum?

The Naples National Archaeological Museum is renowned for its iconic artworks, including the Alexander Mosaic, a vivid portrayal of history, the colossal Farnese Hercules, and the intriguing Secret Cabinet's explicit Roman art amongst more.

What is the Naples Archaeolgical Museum famous for?

The Naples National Archaeological Museums is known for its array of ancient treasures and collections that provide a glimpse into Roman, Greek and even Egyptian historic life. It has artefacts from Egypt as well as treasures buried by the explosion of Mount Vesuvius.

What are the main highlights at the National Archeological Museum ?

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples features numerous highlights, including exceptional collections of Pompeian and Herculaneum artifacts, Farnese sculptures, and ancient Roman frescoes, offering insights into Italy's rich archaeological past.

How can I get tickets to the National Archeological Museum Naples?

There are multiple ways to obtain tickets to the Museum. You could purchase tickets in person from the museum's ticket counters. However, be aware that queues can be long, particularly during peak tourist seasons. It is advisable to arrive early to minimize waiting times. As a result, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online. This allows you to select a specific date and time slot for your visit, reducing waiting times.

How much are National Archeological Museum tickets?

National Archeological Museum tickets cost vary based on the type of experience you choose. The ticket price for the National Archeological Museums starts from €23.