Art, science, history, tradition… where would you like to start?
10 unmissable museums in Trentino
What is climate change? What are the common traits of paintings by Futurists? How did people live during the Middle Ages? Sure, you can find the answers to these questions on Google, but visiting a museum to find out is another experience entirely. Art, science, history, tradition… Trentino’s museums are like pathways that lead you deep into a world of culture, because it’s not just the destination that counts, but the route you take to get there.
Our museums are different yet complementary, all boasting rich collections on display, a varied programme of events, and skilled, passionate staff. They are all easy to reach and have dedicated services for families as well as ad hoc activities for the youngest children. Let's explore them together.
Muse, Trento
This is one of Europe’s most fascinating natural science museums, beginning with its futuristic structure designed by starchitect Renzo Piano, a reflection of Trentino’s mountainous skyline. This museum answers a range of questions in a clear and accessible way, even for the youngest children: from climate change to sustainability, from the earliest humans to life in the mountains. Don’t miss the tropical greenhouse!
Buonconsiglio Castle, Trento
This gorgeous renaissance castle in the city centre houses several art and archaeological collections inside, creating a journey through time from prehistory to the First World War, with a visit to the cell of patriot Cesare Battisti. You can also see the castle’s frescoes, stroll along its arcades and long staircases, and marvel at the Gothic masterpiece Ciclo dei Mesi.
The Gallerie, Trento
Two exhibition venues housed in two former road tunnels, in the Collina di Trento hillside. The Galleria Bianca (White Gallery) is a landmark venue for intriguing temporary exhibits and events, while the Galleria Nera (Black Gallery) is a 300-metre long setting for large installations (photos, videos, etc.), narrating the history and stories of Trentino. Their emotional impact is undeniable.
Mart, Rovereto
About half an hour by train from Trento sits this large museum of modern and contemporary art, featuring the innovative design of starchitect Mario Botta. It is a landmark venue for large art exhibitions in Trentino and also boasts a notable permanent collection starring works of art by Futurist masters, as well as others by De Chirico, Burri and a wonderful depiction of Venus by Francesco Hayez.
Italian War History Museum, Rovereto
Inside the castle which looms over the historic centre of Rovereto is one of the most comprehensive museums on the First World War and on wars in general. Uniforms, weapons and documents tell the story of the conflict that devastated the world during the early 20th century. Other fascinating highlights are the collection of modern weapons (16th-18th century) and the section on war propaganda.
METS, San Michele all’Adige
Though just a half-hour drive from Trento, this journey will take you back over fifty years in time, when life in Trentino was a struggle to win arable land from the mountain. This exploration of the customs and traditions of the people of Trentino is more than just a museum. It is an emotional journey through a rural world which will intrigue and fascinate. The section on Alpine carnivals is particularly unmissable.
Casa d'Arte Futurista Depero – Rovereto
Again in Rovereto, you can visit this unique museum. The house where Fortunato Depero lived, one of the protagonists of the futurist movement, today houses the only futurist museum in Italy. Paintings, tapestries, mosaics, drawings, designer objects, collages, posters, flyers and furniture created by this pioneer of contemporary design.
Villa Romana di Orfeo – Trento
Lying underneath the city of Trento are the remains of the ancient city "Tridentum" from Roman times. There are several archeological areas in the historical centre of the city, which allow you to dive into the past. We recommend paying a visit to Via Rosmini, to admire the ruins of the Roman Villa of Orpheus, with its magnificent polychrome mosaic that covers 56 square metres!
Museo Diocesano Tridentino – Trento
A treasure trove in the heart of Trento. The Diocesan Museum is found right in Piazza Duomo, in the ancient Palazzo Pretorio. Paintings, wooden sculptures, elegant medieval illuminated manuscripts and lavish Flemish tapestries... an artistic heritage ranging from the 11th to the 19th century, accompanied by interesting insights and multimedia stations.
MAG – Riva del Garda
A museum housed in a castle on Lago di Garda. This should be enough of a reason to visit this museum in Riva del Garda. Then there are the temporary exhibitions in its halls, and the permanent sections dedicated to paintings, archeology and history, and the workshop-tour "Invento", for children and their families. For all these reasons, MAG is worth a visit.
