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Museums #21 in Ferrara

Cathedrals Museum

4.4 · 676 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Cathedrals Museum, Via S. Romano, 44121 Ferrara FE, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The museum building was originally a 15th-century Benedictine church dedicated to Saint Romanus.

2

The collection includes the famous 'Months' series panels, originally part of the Porta dei Mesi, destroyed in the 18th century.

3

It houses a rare collection of 15th-century tapestries commissioned by Bishop Bartolomeo della Rovere.

4

The display includes the original 13th-century 'Annunciation' group sculptures by the Master of the Months.

Overview

The Cathedrals Museum, or Museo della Cattedrale, is housed within the former church of San Romano in Ferrara. It preserves sacred art, liturgical objects, and tapestries originally commissioned for the Ferrara Cathedral. The collection is notable for the inclusion of the 'Months' panels by Cosmè Tura, which are masterpieces of the Ferrarese School. Visitors can view the original marble sculptures from the cathedral's facade, including the Portale dei Mesi. The museum preserves 15th-century tapestries, including the series depicting the life of Saint George and Saint Maurelius. The building itself reflects 15th-century architecture, recently renovated to house these ecclesiastical treasures. It serves as a repository for works removed from the Duomo to protect them from environmental damage.

Photo spot

The main exhibition hall looking towards the apse, where the marble relief panels are displayed.

Insider tips

Look for the original limestone sculptures that were replaced by copies on the cathedral exterior.

Spend time in the central nave area to appreciate the architectural integration of modern display cases within the ancient church walls.

What to avoid

Do not confuse the museum entrance with the main cathedral entrance; the museum is located in the deconsecrated San Romano church nearby.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet tone; avoid using flash photography to protect the delicate antique tapestries.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1 hour
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on weekdays to ensure a quiet viewing experience of the detailed tapestries.
Address
Cathedrals Museum, Via S. Romano, 44121 Ferrara FE, Italy
44.835, 11.620
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsMonths panels by Cosmè Tura, 15th-century tapestries, Romanesque cathedral sculptures

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on weekdays to ensure a quiet viewing experience of the detailed tapestries..

The main exhibition hall looking towards the apse, where the marble relief panels are displayed.

Close by you'll find Estense Castle, Palazzo dei Diamanti, Ferrara Cathedral.