Collection of Modern Religious Art, Vatican Museums

The Collection of Modern Religious Art at Vatican Museums displays over 500 artworks distributed across 55 rooms, including paintings, sculptures, and graphic works by artists from around the world. These pieces illustrate how different artistic movements of the 20th century approached religious and spiritual subjects.

Founded in 1973 under Pope Paul VI, this collection was created to strengthen the connection between the Catholic Church and contemporary artistic movements. It emerged from a desire to honor and preserve spiritual expression within modern art.

Artists like Matisse and Picasso reimagined religious subjects through modern artistic styles visible in these galleries. The works show how contemporary movements engaged with spiritual questions in fresh ways.

Access is through the main Vatican Museums entrance, and guided tours help visitors understand the artistic meanings and spiritual themes in each work. It helps to plan your route in advance since the collection spreads across numerous rooms.

One section houses chasubles, liturgical garments designed by Henri Matisse and later donated by his son. These textiles show how a major artist engaged with sacred clothing as well.

Location: Vatican City

Inception: June 23, 1973

Official opening: 1973

Part of: Vatican Museums

Website: https://museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/it/collezioni/musei/collezione-d_arte-contemporanea.html

GPS coordinates: 41.90333,12.45500

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:26