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Museums #15 in Ravenna

MAR - Museo d’Arte della Città di Ravenna

4.5 · 1,922 reviews
Quiet and contemplative with a focus on historical preservation.
MAR - Museo d’Arte della Città di Ravenna, Via di Roma, 13, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The building was originally a Camaldolese monastery known as the Loggetta Lombardesca, characterized by its elegant 16th-century arched loggia.

2

The museum holds a permanent collection of over 1,000 works of art spanning from the late Middle Ages to the present.

3

MAR is a primary center for the study and promotion of the Ravenna International Mosaic Biennial.

4

The collection features significant pieces by the Futurist artist Giacomo Balla.

5

The interior cloisters retain original architectural features that were adapted for display space in the late 20th century.

6

The museum houses a specialized art library that is one of the most comprehensive in the Emilia-Romagna region.

Overview

The Museo d’Arte della Città di Ravenna (MAR) is housed within the restored 16th-century Loggetta Lombardesca monastery complex. The museum holds a significant collection of Byzantine-inspired contemporary mosaics, reflecting Ravenna’s historical identity as a global hub of mosaic artistry. Its permanent collection spans from the 14th century to the contemporary era, including substantial works by local artist Antonio Longanesi. The facility frequently hosts international contemporary art exhibitions, often integrated into the historical architecture of the cloister. The museum serves as the primary municipal venue for visual arts, documenting the evolution of Italian art movements throughout the 20th century. Visitors can explore both classical painting galleries and modern installations within a single visit. The facility emphasizes the dialogue between ancient monastic structures and modern exhibition design.

Photo spot

The 16th-century arched colonnade within the central cloister provides a balanced architectural frame for photography.

Insider tips

Prioritize the mosaic section to see how local tradition has transitioned from historical craftsmanship to contemporary sculpture.

Check the official website for temporary exhibition schedules, as these often occupy the main cloister space.

Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Giardini Pubblici to view the surrounding park sculptures.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the contemporary mosaic exhibition, as many visitors focus only on the historical galleries and miss the museum's modern specialization.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet tone in the galleries; photography without flash is permitted for personal use only.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.
Address
MAR - Museo d’Arte della Città di Ravenna, Via di Roma, 13, 48121 Ravenna RA, Italy
Website
44.414, 12.206
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsContemporary mosaic collection, 14th-century works, and the Longanesi archive

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and weekend crowds..

The 16th-century arched colonnade within the central cloister provides a balanced architectural frame for photography.

Close by you'll find Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Dante's Tomb, Piazza del Popolo.