Galleria Estense, National art museum in Modena, Italy
The Galleria Estense occupies the top floor of Palazzo dei Musei, spreading across sixteen exhibition rooms and four large salons. It displays paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from different periods and regions.
The collection was moved from Ferrara to Modena in 1598 by Duke Cesare I d'Este, creating a new cultural center for the ruling family. This relocation established Modena as an important place for art and learning.
The museum displays masterful Italian works alongside paintings from Flanders, Germany, and France. This mixture shows the far-reaching connections of the Este court.
The museum is housed in the Palazzo dei Musei building and has different opening hours depending on the day of the week. Checking current visiting times before your trip helps you plan your visit smoothly.
The collection houses the Estense Harp, a handcrafted double harp of such importance that it appeared on Italian banknotes. This instrument shows the refinement and wealth of the Este court.
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