The Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum has a fascinating architecture including impressive ancient treasures.
The Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum is considered one of the most important collections in Europe, impressive and well preserved findings can be found from the Prehistoric to Roman era. Built in 1878 as the Museo del Seminario, today its name derives from the famous archaeologist Paolo Orsi, who’s many findings and studies can be found in the museum. It is located between the Catacombs of St. John and the Catacombs of Vigna Cassia and has fascinating architecture with a circular central body, framed by three other buildings, all with interconnecting hexagons designed as a clever gallery space. The exhibitions are spread over two levels, and there is an Auditorium where visitors can watch interesting documentaries related to the visit.
The archaeological exposition is divided into four sections. Sector A is dedicated to the Prehistoric with skeletons and fossils that indicate the various types of animals that existed in the Quaternary period. Sector B is an extended section focused on all the Greek colonies of Sicily, there are vases, reliefs and terracotta stat. Sector C exhibits artefacts from the Magna Graecia colonies along eastern Sicily such as Akrai, Kasmenai, Camarina, Eloro, Gela and Agrigento. Lastly, Sector D which opened only in 2006, holds ruins of the Roman period including the marble sculpture Venus Landolina and the Sarcophagus of Adelphi, that was found in 1872, in the catacomb of Saint John.
Practical Informations:
Opening Times:
Monday closed
Tue to Sat 9:00 – 6:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 – 1:00 pm
Adult: 8,00 €
Concession (18-25 years old): 4,00 €
Free under 18 years old