Contemporary Art Collection
Contemporary Art in a Unique Context
The Contemporary Art Collection of the Vatican Museums offers an exciting journey through the works of some of the greatest artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Van Gogh, Chagall, Dalí, Picasso and many others. This extraordinary collection unites the spiritual heritage of the Church with modern artistic expressions, creating a fascinating dialogue between past and present. Book now your tickets online to discover one of the world's most impressive contemporary art collections without standing in line!
Useful information
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.).
- Tickets: It is recommended to buy tickets online to avoid long queues.
- Location: Inside the Vatican Museums, accessible with the same ticket.
- Accessibility: Accessible routes for people with disabilities.
- Additional services: Audio guides available in various languages.
How to get there
To reach the Vatican Museums in Rome, there are several transport options, depending on the starting point and personal preference:
Underground
The metro is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get to the Vatican Museums. You should take the Line A (orange line) and get off at the 'Ottaviano - San Pietro - Musei Vaticani' stop. From there, the museums are about a 10-minute walk away. Upon exiting the metro, follow the signs to the Vatican Museums.
Bus
Several buses stop near the Vatican Museums. The most useful lines are:
- Line 49It stops right in front of the entrance to the museums.
- Routes 32, 81, 982They stop in Piazza del Risorgimento, a few steps from the entrance.
- Lines 492, 990stop in Via Leone IV / Via degli Scipioni.
Tram
You can also take tram number 19 and get off at the 'Piazza del Risorgimento' stop, which is close to the Vatican Museums.
On foot
If you are already in the centre of Rome, you might consider walking to the museums. For example, it takes about 30 minutes to walk from Piazza Navona.
Taxi or Car Rental
Taxis are readily available throughout Rome and are a convenient option if you want a direct journey. Car hire can also be an option, but bear in mind that parking near museums can be limited.
History
The Contemporary Art Collection of the Vatican Museums is one of the most fascinating and significant collections within the vast museum complex. This collection is the brainchild of Pope Paul VI, who in 1973 decided to open the Vatican to modern and contemporary art movements, recognising the importance of dialogue between the Church and the artists of his time.
The collection is located in a dedicated area within the Vatican Museums and includes over 800 works, including paintings, sculptures and graphics, by internationally renowned artists. These include names such as Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Marc Chagall, Salvador Dalí and many others. Pope Paul VI's intention was to build a bridge between the religious artistic tradition and new artistic expressions, stimulating a confrontation that could enrich both sides.
The collection develops through different themes and exhibition routes, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the evolution of art in its multiple expressive languages. The works on display reflect not only the stylistic variety, but also the depth of the content addressed by the artists, including spirituality, human nature and social issues.
Over the years, the Contemporary Art Collection has grown thanks to donations and targeted acquisitions, always keeping alive the original idea of a continuous interaction between art and faith. This section of the Vatican Museums represents a unique opportunity to admire how contemporary art can dialogue with the past and with spaces historically linked to the Catholic tradition.
Today, to visit this collection is to take a journey through time and space, discovering how modern and contemporary art has found a privileged place in the heart of the Vatican, continuing to inspire and stimulate profound reflections in its visitors.
The Contemporary Art Collection of the Vatican Museums is one of the most fascinating and significant collections within the vast museum complex. This collection is the brainchild of Pope Paul VI, who in 1973 decided to open the Vatican to modern and contemporary art movements, recognising the importance of dialogue between the Church and the artists of his time.
The collection is located in a dedicated area within the Vatican Museums and includes over 800 works, including paintings, sculptures and graphics, by internationally renowned artists. These include names such as Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Marc Chagall, Salvador Dalí and many others. Pope Paul VI's intention was to build a bridge between the religious artistic tradition and new artistic expressions, stimulating a confrontation that could enrich both sides.
The collection develops through different themes and exhibition routes, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the evolution of art in its many expressive languages. The works on display reflect not only the stylistic variety, but also the depth of the content addressed by the artists, including spirituality, human nature and social issues.
Over the years, the Contemporary Art Collection has grown thanks to donations and targeted acquisitions, always keeping alive the original idea of a continuous interaction between art and faith. This section of the Vatican Museums represents a unique opportunity to admire how contemporary art can dialogue with the past and with spaces historically linked to the Catholic tradition.
Today, to visit this collection is to take a journey through time and space, discovering how modern and contemporary art has found a privileged place in the heart of the Vatican, continuing to inspire and stimulate profound reflections in its visitors.
Reviews
A Bridge between Faith and Modernity
An Unexpected Discovery
Contemporary Art in a Unique Context
Tips
Book your Ticket Online
To avoid long queues at the entrance, it is advisable to book your ticket online in advance. This will save you time and allow you to enter museums directly, enjoying your visit without stress.
Take part in a Guided Tour
Consider the option of a guided tour to better understand the context of contemporary art works. An experienced guide can offer interesting insights into the artists and the intent behind each work, enriching your overall experience.
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