Marble sculpture 'Untitled (bench)' by Domenico Bianchi at MADRE Museum Naples

Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum, Madre Museum

Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum (MADRE): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Naples Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Situated in the heart of Naples, the Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum—commonly known as the MADRE Museum—is a vibrant nexus of historical architecture and contemporary creativity. Housed in the restored Palazzo Donnaregina, a site with medieval origins and royal connections, MADRE offers visitors an immersive experience where centuries-old heritage meets groundbreaking art. Since its inauguration in 2005, following a transformative renovation by architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, MADRE has established itself as a leading cultural hub, featuring a dynamic permanent collection and a robust lineup of temporary exhibitions. Its location, set amidst Naples’ most treasured historical sites, makes it an essential stop for both art aficionados and cultural explorers.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview for planning your visit, including opening hours, ticketing, accessibility, highlights of the permanent and temporary collections, nearby attractions, and practical tips for an enriching experience.

For the latest updates and visitor information, please consult the official MADRE Museum website and additional trusted guides (madrenapoli.it, campaniasmart.it, napolike.com).

Historical Evolution of the Donnaregina Site
Architectural Significance and Museum Conversion
Permanent Collection: Highlights and Artists
Site-Specific Installations
Visiting MADRE: Hours, Tickets, and Access
Temporary Exhibitions: 2024–2025
Community Engagement and Accessibility
Practical Visitor Tips and FAQs
Nearby Attractions
Summary and Recommendations
References

Historical Evolution of the Donnaregina Site

Medieval Origins and Monastic Heritage

The MADRE Museum’s home, Palazzo Donnaregina, traces its roots to the 13th century when it served as the Monastery of Santa Maria Donnaregina, established by the Swabians and later expanded by Queen Mary of Hungary in 1325. These deep historical layers are still visible, with the adjacent Baroque and Gothic churches occasionally hosting exhibitions that connect the museum’s contemporary program with its religious and royal past (madrenapoli.it).

19th-Century Transformation

In the mid-19th century, the palazzo underwent significant changes. Acquired by Banco di Napoli, it was converted into a pawnshop, and two new wings were added. The grand façade on Via Settembrini, with its stately entrance and stairs, remains a defining architectural feature of the museum today (madrenapoli.it).

20th-Century Adaptations

Throughout the 20th century, the building saw further modifications, including reinforced concrete sections and post-earthquake reinforcements after 1980. Abandoned after flood damage in 2001, it was acquired by the Campania Regional Government and, by 2005, transformed into the MADRE Museum (madrenapoli.it).

Architectural Significance and Museum Conversion

Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Vision

Renowned architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, in collaboration with Studio DAZ-Dumontet Antonini Zaske, led the museum’s restoration. The design preserves the palazzo’s historical layers while integrating modern exhibition spaces, resulting in a harmonious blend of past and present (madrenapoli.it).

Museum Layout

Exhibition Area: 2,662 sqm within a 7,200 sqm facility
Facilities: Library, mediatheque, bookshop, auditorium, and café
Floors: Permanent collections on the first and second, temporary exhibitions on the third, and a panoramic rooftop terrace (campaniasmart.it)

Permanent Collection: Highlights and Artists

Overview

MADRE’s permanent collection features over 300 works from leading Italian and international artists, acquired through purchases, donations, and special commissions since 2005. The “Per_formare una collezione” project, launched in 2013, ensures ongoing growth and innovation in the collection.

Key Artists

Among the artists represented are:

Sol LeWitt: Conceptual art and wall drawings
Jeff Koons: Sculptures reflecting consumer culture
Andy Warhol: Pop Art icon
Lucio Fontana: Pioneer of spatial concepts
Anish Kapoor: Immersive installations
Jannis Kounellis: Arte Povera and references to Naples’ seafaring heritage
Mimmo Paladino: Transavanguardia artist inspired by Mediterranean myths
Richard Long: Nature and landscape as art

Other notable names include Rebecca Horn, Damien Hirst, Olafur Eliasson, and Richard Serra (campaniasmart.it).

Regional Focus

MADRE emphasizes artists with connections to Naples and the Campania region, reflecting local history, landscape, and culture through contemporary media.

Site-Specific Installations

MADRE is renowned for its site-specific installations that create a dialogue between contemporary art and the historic palazzo. Noteworthy works include:

Domenico Bianchi, Senza titolo (2005): Wax-based installation highlighting simplicity and light.
Francesco Clemente, Ave Ovo (2005): Majolica floor and fresco installation reflecting Neapolitan symbols.
Mimmo Paladino, Untitled (2005, 2006): Sculptures and rooftop works inspired by migration.
Jannis Kounellis, Untitled (2005): Iron structures referencing Naples’ maritime past.
Richard Serra, Judith and Holofernes (2005): Engaging spatial perceptions.
Bianco-Valente, Il mare non bagna Napoli (2015): Rooftop installation on Naples’ relationship with the sea.
Paul Thorel, Passaggio della Vittoria (2018): Rooftop piece offering unique perspectives (madrenapoli.it).

The rooftop terrace, featuring Paladino’s Cavallo (2007), provides panoramic views of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the bay.

Visiting MADRE: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last admission 6:15 PM)
Closed: Mondays, January 1, December 25

Check for special holiday schedules on the official website.

Ticketing

General Admission: €8.00
Reduced Admission: €6.00 (students, seniors, Artsupp Card holders)
Free Admission: Under 18, residents on designated days, first Sunday of each month
Combined Ticket: Access to permanent and temporary exhibitions

Tickets can be purchased online (official ticketing page) or at the door. Advance booking is advised during peak times.

Getting There

Address: Via Luigi Settembrini, 79, 80139 Naples, Italy
Metro: Line 1 (Museo station), Line 2 (Piazza Cavour station)
Bus: Stops near Piazza Museo and Via Santa Maria di Donnaregina
Car: Limited parking; public transport recommended

Accessibility

Full wheelchair access via elevators and ramps
Accessible restrooms and seating throughout
Sensory information available on request

Temporary Exhibitions: 2024–2025

MADRE’s temporary exhibitions are a major draw, featuring Italian and international artists in themed and experimental displays.

2024–2025 Highlights

“THE REMAINS OF NOTHING” (May–Sep 2024): Themes of absence and transformation (exhibition page).
“Vai, vai, Saudade” (Jul–Nov 2024): Exploration of nostalgia.
“Cutting Clouds | Tagliando le nuvole” (Sep 2024–Jan 2025): Focus on perception and memory.
“GLI ANNI” (Dec 2024–May 2025): Naples art history from the 1960s onwards.
“Euforia” by Tomaso Binga (Apr–Jul 2025): Features pioneering feminist artist.
“Spettri Digitali” (Digital Ghosts) (May–Jul 2025): Impact of digital technology on art.

Past notable exhibitions include “The Shadow of the Tree” (2023–2024), “Kazuko Miyamoto” (2023), and “Jimmie Durham: humanity is not a completed project” (2022–2023).

Community Engagement and Accessibility

MADRE is committed to education and inclusion:

Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, with advance booking.
Educational Programs: Workshops and creative initiatives for schools, families, and the community.
Artist Talks & Curator Tours: Public events enhancing visitor interaction.
Accessible Facilities: Ramps, elevators, and assistance upon request.
Multilingual Resources: Exhibition materials in Italian and English.

Practical Visitor Tips and FAQs

Tips for an Enjoyable Visit

Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience; Sunday evenings offer extended hours.
Allow 1.5–2 hours to fully explore the museum.
Photography is allowed without flash; check for restrictions in certain exhibits.
Use the cloakroom for small bags; large backpacks are not permitted.
Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended.
No on-site café; explore nearby eateries for authentic Neapolitan food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, and it is recommended for convenience.

Q: Is MADRE wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with comprehensive facilities.

Q: Are there family-friendly activities?
A: Yes, including workshops and creative programs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, but without flash.

Nearby Attractions

MADRE’s central location makes it easy to explore Naples’ key cultural sites:

Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)
National Archaeological Museum
Accademia di Belle Arti
Castel Nuovo
Piazza del Plebiscito
Royal Palace

Accommodations range from boutique hotels to vacation rentals, and the museum is well-served by public transport (Summer in Italy).

Summary and Recommendations

The MADRE Museum exemplifies the fusion of Naples’ rich cultural heritage with contemporary artistic innovation. Its thoughtfully curated collections, pioneering installations, and prime location among Naples’ historical sites make it a must-visit destination. Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, or the city’s layered history, MADRE promises a memorable and inspiring experience.

Plan ahead by consulting official resources, consider guided or audio tours, and use the Audiala app for enriched exploration. For up-to-date information, tickets, and current exhibitions, always refer to the official MADRE Museum website and trusted local guides.