National Museum Of Musical Instruments

National Museum of Musical Instruments Rome: Complete Visiting Hours, Tickets & Attractions Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Rome, the National Museum of Musical Instruments (Museo Nazionale degli Strumenti Musicali) is a cultural treasure that invites visitors to explore the evolution of music and instrument-making from antiquity to the modern era. Housed in the historic 17th-century Palazzina Samoggia, adjacent to the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, the museum offers a unique journey through more than 3,000 instruments and is an essential stop for music lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers alike (Museo Nazionale degli Strumenti Musicali, BeCulture, Turismo Roma).

Historical Background & Origins
Museum Collections & Notable Artifacts
Visitor Experience: Exhibitions, Events & Accessibility
Practical Information: Hours, Tickets & Facilities
Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips
FAQs
Conclusion & Further Resources

Historical Background & Origins

Foundation and Growth

The museum owes its existence largely to Gennaro Evangelista Gorga, a renowned Italian tenor and avid collector. After his operatic career, Gorga assembled an extraordinary collection, including thousands of musical instruments from across the globe. His passion led to the eventual creation of this encyclopedic institution, with his collection forming the core of the museum’s holdings (BeCulture).

Despite financial challenges and periods when the collection was at risk of dispersal, the Italian State acquired and safeguarded it in 1949. The Palazzina Samoggia, itself surrounded by archaeological remains and lush gardens, became the museum’s permanent home in 1974 (BeCulture Museums).

Institutional Role

Today, the museum operates under the Italian Ministry of Culture and is recognized as one of Italy’s foremost music museums, offering a window into the country’s—and the world’s—musical heritage (WhichMuseum).

Museum Collections & Notable Artifacts

Chronological and Geographical Range

With over 3,000 instruments (about 800 on display at any time), the museum’s collection spans from ancient Greek and Roman artifacts to contemporary inventions. The exhibits trace the evolution of musical craftsmanship through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods, as well as modern and non-European traditions (Artsupp).

Exhibition Path & Thematic Sections

The museum layout guides visitors through 18 exhibition halls organized by instrument type and historical period:

Archaeo-Musical Section: Ancient terracotta whistles, bronze bells, and archaeological finds from southern Etruria (Italia.it).
String Instruments: Masterpieces such as Andrea Amati’s “Il Portoghese” violin (1567) and the elaborate Barberini harp (1633–34).
Keyboard Instruments: The world’s oldest surviving harpsichord (1537, Hans Müller) and Bartolomeo Cristofori’s 1722 piano, the earliest example of the modern piano (Artsupp).
Wind & Percussion: Renaissance trumpets, medieval flutes, and global percussion.
Non-European Instruments: Rare pieces from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, highlighting the universal nature of music (Turismo Roma).
Mechanical & Electronic: Historic music boxes, barrel organs, early synthesizers, and Giacomo Balla’s Futurist “Ciac-ciac.”
The Sgambati Salon-Studio: A reconstructed 19th-century composer’s studio, reflecting Rome’s musical elite (Italia.it).

The Kircher Legacy

A special section honors Jesuit scholar Athanasius Kircher and his pioneering work at the intersection of music, science, and anthropology (WhichMuseum).

Visitor Experience: Exhibitions, Events & Accessibility

Permanent and Rotating Displays

To protect fragile instruments, the museum regularly rotates its displays, ensuring both preservation and fresh visitor experiences. Thematic temporary exhibitions and events are also held throughout the year (WhichMuseum).

Guided Tours & Educational Activities

Regular guided tours (in Italian and English) are available for individuals and groups (Guided Tours).
Workshops and educational programs for children, adults, and schools focus on music history and instrument-making (Events Calendar).

Accessibility

Step-free access, ramps, and elevators throughout the building.
Accessible restrooms and tactile paths for visually impaired visitors (Accessibility Information).
Audio guides and printed materials in multiple languages.

Visitor Facilities

Cloakroom and secure lockers for personal items.
Restrooms (including accessible options).
Small auditorium for concerts and events (no café or gift shop on-site).

Practical Information: Hours, Tickets & Facilities

Visiting Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (last entry 6:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays, January 1st, May 1st, December 25th

For the latest updates, consult the official website.

Ticket Prices

Full Price: €6.00
Reduced Price: €2.00 (EU citizens aged 18–25)
Free Admission: Children under 18, people with disabilities and companions, teachers with school groups, and on the first Sunday of each month

Tickets are available at the entrance or online via the official ticketing portal.

Directions

Address: Piazza Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, 9/a, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Metro: 10-minute walk from San Giovanni (Line A) or Manzoni stations
Tram: Line 3 stops at the museum entrance
Bus: Served by lines 3, 16, 81, 85, 87, and 810
Parking: Limited; public transport recommended

Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme: Adjacent to the museum, renowned for its relics and mosaics (Basilica Info).
Lateran Complex: Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano and the Scala Santa within a 15-minute walk.
Imperial Palace Ruins, Castrense Amphitheatre, Circus of Heliogabalus: All within walking distance.
Dining: Numerous trattorias, pizzerias, and gelaterias in the San Giovanni neighborhood.

Visitor Tips:

Allocate 1–2 hours for your visit.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons are less crowded.
Photography is permitted (no flash or tripods).
Combine your visit with other nearby Rome historical sites for a full cultural day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (last entry 6:30 PM); closed Mondays and major holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Full price €6, reduced €2 for EU citizens aged 18–25, free for children under 18 and on the first Sunday of each month.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Italian and English; advance booking recommended.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, via the official ticket portal.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Parking is limited; use public transport if possible.

Conclusion & Further Resources

The National Museum of Musical Instruments in Rome is a must-visit for anyone interested in music, history, or craftsmanship. Its rich collections, engaging exhibitions, and convenient location make it an ideal destination for families, students, and tourists. For special events, up-to-date visiting hours, and more, always consult the official website before your visit.

Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and cultural insights. Follow the museum and Audiala on social media for the latest news and events.