Naples, a city steeped in history, is the place where an ancient barracks from the 16th century transformed into the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN), one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the world. This article will guide you through its extraordinary collections, history, and unique features of the museum.
A Structure Rich in History
The MANN, located in a historic barracks, is a world-renowned cultural institution. This structure houses an extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, including some of the most important objects from ancient Rome.
Unparalleled Collections
The museum is famous for its exceptional collections, among which the Roman era stands out, considered one of the largest in the world. The Pompeian Collection is the highlight of the museum and includes the House of the Faun, the Secret Cabinet, the Temple of Isis, the Villa of the Papyri, and a wide range of mosaics, frescoes, and statues. The collection is named after a model of Pompeii.
The MANN also boasts the Egyptian Collection, which is the third largest in Europe and the second in Italy after the Egyptian Museum in Turin. One of the oldest artifacts is the Lady of Naples, a statue dating back to around 2700-2640 BC. The collection also features four mummies, three of which are adults and one is a child.
The Farnese Collection, with sculptures from Palazzo Farnese in Rome and various other historical sites in Rome, is another gem of the museum. This collection is named after Alessandro Farnese, who became Pope Paul III, but it was Ferdinand IV of Bourbon who transferred these treasures to Naples in 1787.
A Look to the Present: Contemporary Museum
In addition to the permanent historical collections, the MANN is also a venue for high-level contemporary exhibitions. Photographic exhibitions, displays on Neapolitan Masks, and light installations make the museum a place where the past merges with the present and the future.
The Gardens of the MANN
The MANN also boasts two magnificent courtyards, opened to the public after a renovation in 2016. In particular, the eastern courtyard features a Roman garden with roses and vines, which sometimes serves as a backdrop for exhibitions, such as “Myth and Nature.”
Explore the MANN Virtually
If you can’t visit the museum in person, you can still explore its incredible collection through a virtual tour on Google Arts & Culture, which offers over 750 works of art, virtual exhibitions, and interactive paths. Stay updated on the museum’s online initiatives by following their official page and social channels.
