Museo Della Scultura Contemporanea

Museo della Scultura Contemporanea MUSMA: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide – Matera, Italy

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: MUSMA in Matera’s Cultural Landscape

Set amid the ancient Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Museo della Scultura Contemporanea di Matera (MUSMA) is Italy’s foremost museum dedicated exclusively to contemporary sculpture. Since its opening in 2006, MUSMA has uniquely woven together the threads of Matera’s prehistoric origins and its vibrant modern art scene. Housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Pomarici—often called the “Palazzo delle cento stanze” (Palace of a Hundred Rooms)—the museum offers an immersive experience where sculpture, architecture, and history converge. Its collection, exceeding 400 works by renowned Italian and international artists, is displayed throughout evocative cave spaces and noble chambers carved from tufa rock. MUSMA not only preserves Matera’s artistic and architectural heritage but also propels the city’s ongoing renaissance, engaging visitors through exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on MUSMA visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, nearby attractions, and travel tips, ensuring a rewarding visit for art lovers and cultural explorers alike (10cose.it, guidematera.it, MUSMA Official Site).

Introduction
Historical Context and Origins
Location and Setting: Palazzo Pomarici and the Sassi
Architecture and Exhibition Design
Highlights from the Collection
Current and Upcoming Exhibitions
Events, Tours, and Educational Initiatives
Accessibility and Facilities
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Getting There and Practical Travel Tips
Photographic Opportunities
Nearby Attractions in Matera
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Additional Resources

Historical Context and Origins

MUSMA’s roots are deeply embedded in Matera’s long-standing tradition of cultural adaptation and renewal. The Sassi districts, inhabited for over 9,000 years, are a testament to humanity’s resilience and ingenuity, having evolved from ancient cave dwellings to a thriving cultural hub (Sophisticated Travel). The museum was founded in 2006 through collaboration between the Fondazione Zetema, the Municipality of Matera, and the Circolo Culturale La Scaletta, with the goal of revitalizing Matera’s cultural landscape and establishing a dedicated space for contemporary sculpture (guidematera.it).

The transformation of the Sassi from marginalized dwellings to celebrated heritage sites culminated in their UNESCO designation in 1993 and Matera’s selection as European Capital of Culture in 2019. MUSMA’s integration into this context further solidified the city’s reputation as a center for artistic innovation and historical continuity.

Location and Setting: Palazzo Pomarici and the Sassi

MUSMA is located within the Palazzo Pomarici, a 17th-century noble residence at Via San Giacomo, Sasso Caveoso, in the heart of the Sassi di Matera (Musei Matera). The palazzo’s blend of above-ground galleries and underground cave spaces provides a dramatic backdrop for the museum’s collection. These spaces—formerly stables, cellars, and living quarters—are now transformed into exhibition rooms where natural light, rough-hewn stone, and contemporary art interact in compelling ways (evendo.com).

The building itself is a key part of the museum experience, connecting visitors to Matera’s layered history and offering panoramic views over the Sassi districts.

Architecture and Exhibition Design

MUSMA’s exhibition design is distinguished by its sensitive adaptation of historic spaces for contemporary display. Sculptures crafted from terracotta, bronze, steel, glass, wood, and stone are positioned in both formal salons and atmospheric cave galleries, each room offering a distinctive setting shaped by light, shadow, and materiality (guidematera.it). The interplay between modern artworks and ancient architecture creates a multisensory experience, encouraging visitors to engage with the art from multiple perspectives.

Highlights from the Collection

The permanent collection at MUSMA represents a broad cross-section of Italian and international contemporary sculpture from the 1950s onward. Notable artists include:

Italian Masters: Pietro Consagra, Dadamaino (Eduarda Emilia Maino), Agostino Bonalumi, Giuliano Vangi, Fausto Melotti, and Mimmo Rotella.
International Artists: Alexander Calder, Jean Arp, Lynn Chadwick, Mark Gitlin, Beverly Pepper, and more.

The collection is expanded through site-specific installations and temporary exhibitions, with works ranging from traditional sculpture to mixed-media, ceramics, jewelry, and artist books (10cose.it, MUSMA Official Site). Each piece is thoughtfully placed to foster dialogue with the unique architectural context of the Sassi.

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

“Dadamaino. Segni, grafie, spazi” (5 July – 5 October 2025)

Curated by Flaminio Gualdoni, this major retrospective showcases Dadamaino’s artistic evolution and her pivotal role in Matera’s contemporary art scene. The exhibition features rare ceramics, archival materials, and works created in collaboration with local artisans during the late 1970s, many of which are displayed publicly for the first time (Itinerari nell’Arte).

MUSMA regularly rotates its special exhibitions, highlighting influential movements such as Spatialism, Arte Povera, Minimalism, and Kinetic Art, and inviting artists to create site-specific works that respond to the museum’s unique environment.

Events, Tours, and Educational Initiatives

MUSMA is a vibrant cultural institution, offering:

Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, led by expert docents or curators. Advance booking is recommended, especially for groups (MateraOnline).
Workshops and Educational Programs: For children, families, and adults, fostering creative engagement and art appreciation.
Artist Talks and Lectures: Featuring visiting artists, critics, and scholars.
Special Events: Including exhibition openings, evening tours, and community celebrations.
Library: The Biblioteca Scheiwiller, with over 2,500 art books and catalogs, is available for research and study (guidematera.it).

Accessibility and Facilities

Physical Accessibility

Historic Challenges: The museum’s setting in a historic palazzo and cave complex means stairs, uneven floors, and narrow passageways. Some areas may be difficult to access for those with mobility impairments.
Accommodations: Ramps and assistance are available in parts of the museum; visitors with special needs are encouraged to contact MUSMA in advance to discuss arrangements (MateraOnline).
Facilities: Restrooms are available, though not all are fully accessible. Cloakroom facilities are limited; visitors should travel light.
Photography: Allowed without flash in most areas; check with staff for any restrictions (WhichMuseum).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

April 1 – September 30: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:15 PM)
October 1 – March 31: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:15 PM)
Closed: December 25, January 1, and July 2 (Musei Matera)

Ticket Prices

Full Ticket: €7
Reduced Ticket: €4 (ages 7–25, students, FAI members, and other categories)
Children under 6: Free
Groups (20+): €5 per person
Guided Tour: €40 per group (advance booking recommended)
Special Discounts: For journalists, licensed guides, and cultural organization members (MateraOnline)

Payment Note: Some visitors report cash-only payment—confirm payment options ahead of your visit (Earth Trekkers).

Getting There and Practical Travel Tips

Location: Via San Giacomo, 75100 Matera, in Sasso Caveoso.
Access: The museum is best reached on foot due to limited car access in the Sassi. Park in designated lots outside the historic center and walk or use shuttle services (Travelita Blog).
Directions: Detailed walking routes are available from major city points such as Piazza Duomo and Piazza Sedile (WikiMatera).
Public Transport: Matera is served by regional buses; the city center is a short walk from the museum.

Visitor Tips:

Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
The cave spaces are cool year-round; bring a light jacket.
Allow 1–1.5 hours for your visit.
Most signage is in Italian; inquire about English-language tours if needed.
Nearby, the Quarry Lounge rooftop offers refreshments and views (Palazzo del Duca).

Photographic Opportunities

MUSMA’s unique setting provides exceptional photo opportunities, including:

Sunlit galleries with modern sculptures framed by ancient stone arches.
Shadowy cave rooms where texture and light interplay dramatically.
Panoramic terraces overlooking the Sassi districts.

Be mindful to respect museum guidelines and avoid flash photography.

Nearby Attractions in Matera

Enhance your MUSMA visit by exploring:

The Sassi di Matera: Ancient cave dwellings recognized by UNESCO.
Matera Cathedral: Fine example of medieval architecture.
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: A traditional cave house museum.
Palombaro Lungo: An underground water cistern.
Casa Noha: Multimedia introduction to Matera’s history.

Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended for magical light and fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are MUSMA’s visiting hours?
A: April–September, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; October–March, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Closed December 25, January 1, and July 2.

Q: How much do MUSMA tickets cost?
A: Standard ticket is €7; reduced ticket €4; children under 6 enter free.

Q: Is MUSMA wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility is limited due to the historic structure. Contact the museum in advance for specific needs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for €40 per group with advance booking. Language availability may vary.

Q: Can I take photos inside MUSMA?
A: Yes, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas.

Q: Are there educational workshops or family activities?
A: Yes, MUSMA offers regular workshops and special programs—check the official website for details.

Conclusion

MUSMA offers a rich encounter with contemporary sculpture in one of Italy’s most evocative historical settings. Its integration of art, architecture, and community engagement makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Matera’s cultural treasures. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a curious traveler, a visit to MUSMA will deepen your appreciation for the dynamic dialogue between past and present that defines Matera.

For the latest information on exhibitions, hours, and ticketing, consult the MUSMA Official Site.