The City Museum of Rimini, known locally as Museo della Città di Rimini, is a treasure trove of history and culture nestled in the heart of Rimini, Italy. Situated at Via Luigi Tonini #1, this museum is housed in a former Jesuit convent and offers visitors a captivating journey through the region's rich past, from ancient Roman times to the modern era.
The building that now houses the City Museum of Rimini was originally designed by Alfonso Torreggiani as a Seminary and Convent for the Jesuits. Construction of the structure took place between 1746 and 1755. However, after the suppression of the Jesuit order, the site was transferred to the Dominicans and later became a civic hospital in 1797. The building suffered significant damage during World War II bombings and the hospital was eventually closed in 1977. It wasn't until 1990 that the structure was repurposed as the City Museum of Rimini, designed by Pier Luigi Foschi and dedicated to Luigi Tonini, the founder of the first civic museum in Rimini.
As you step into the City Museum of Rimini, you are immediately greeted by the serene courtyard of the cloister, which houses the Roman Lapidarium. This collection, dedicated to Professor Giancarlo Susini, was initially curated in 1981 and features inscriptions from the 1st to the 4th centuries. The museum garden, dedicated to the archaeologist Khaled al-Asaad in 2015, adds a poignant touch to the historical ambiance.
In the basement, visitors can explore an archaeological display that includes instruments from the nearby Domus del Chirurgo and mosaics discovered in the Palazzo Diotallevi. This section provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Romans.
The first floor of the museum is a haven for art enthusiasts. It features a permanent display of works by the local fashion illustrator René Gruau and the Libro dei sogni (Book of Dreams) by Federico Fellini. These exhibits offer a unique blend of local talent and international acclaim, showcasing the artistic heritage of Rimini.
The Pinacoteca, or painting gallery, spans the first and main floors and contains an impressive collection of works from the 11th to the 20th centuries. Highlights include a large Renaissance fresco of The Last Judgement attributed to Giovanni da Rimini and a Last Supper attributed to Benedetto Coda. The gallery also boasts works by artists such as Lattanzio da Rimini, Francesco Zaganelli, Girolamo Marchesi da Cotignola, and Domenico Ghirlandaio, among others.
The Pinacoteca's collection is a testament to the rich artistic history of Rimini and the surrounding region. Some notable pieces include:
These masterpieces, along with many others, provide a comprehensive overview of the evolution of art in Rimini, from medieval times to the Renaissance and beyond.
Adjacent to the museum is the Domus del Chirurgo, an archaeological site that was inaugurated in 2007. During excavations in Piazza Ferrari, the ruins of a second-century CE Roman house were uncovered, complete with mosaics, frescoes, and over 150 ancient surgical instruments. The glass structure that encloses the site allows visitors to view these remarkable findings while ongoing excavations continue to reveal more about Rimini's ancient past.
The City Museum of Rimini is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant testament to the city's enduring legacy. From its origins as a Jesuit convent to its current status as a cultural landmark, the museum offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and archaeology. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the past, the City Museum of Rimini provides a captivating and educational experience that is not to be missed. So, the next time you find yourself in Rimini, make sure to carve out some time to explore this remarkable museum and immerse yourself in the stories of this ancient city.
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