Museo degli Eremitani
- Church
- Architectural features of the church
- The Museo degli Eremitani
- Highlights of the Collection
- The Ovetari Chapel
- The Chapel of the Ovetari
- Museo degli Eremitani Gardens
- Visitor Information
- How to Get to the Museo degli Eremitani
- By public transportation
- By car
- By foot
- Where to Eat Near the Museo degli Eremitani
- Where to Stay Near the Museo degli Eremitani
- Accessibility
- Events and Exhibitions
- Things to Do in Padua After Visiting the Museo degli Eremitani
- Insider Tip
Church
The Church of the Eremitani is a medieval and Renaissance period Roman Catholic church that is located in Padua, Italy. Archaeological research provides evidence that the Augustinians began to build here in 122Following fire damage, they commenced rebuilding in 127The church was restored in the Renaissance style in the late 15th century and the 16th century. It is part of the Eremitani complex which includes the adjacent Museo Civico degli Eremitani. Many distinguished citizens of medieval Padua were buried in the church, including members of the Carrara family who ruled Padua for much of the 14th century. The Augustinian Order had been banished from Padua in 1306, and they only regained possession of the church and the monastery complex in 14The current form of the church dates largely to this period, including its Renaissance façade, begun in 140The church was subject to a major rebuilding campaign in the 15th and 16th century, largely thanks to the offerings paid by pilgrims visiting the body of the recently canonized Saint Luke the Evangelist. An earthquake in 1687 caused major damage and artworks were removed as the building was repaired. During World War II, the building was badly damaged by Allied bombs in March 1944, and much of the interior was destroyed, including the ground floor of the Ovetari chapel. After the war, the site was slowly reconstructed.
Architectural features of the church
The Church of the Eremitani is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, boasting intricate details and awe-inspiring proportions. Built between 1276 and 1306 by the Augustinian Hermits, the church features a Latin cross plan and a single nave. Its soaring ribbed vaults are supported by slender clustered columns, creating a sense of lightness and spaciousness. The exterior is adorned with elegant pointed arches, rose windows, and delicate tracery, while the interior is enriched with beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and stained glass windows. The high altar, designed by Andrea Briosco and Tullio Lombardo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, showcasing exquisite carvings and intricate marble work. The church also houses several chapels, each with its own unique architectural features and artistic treasures. It is truly a feast for the eyes and a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.
The Museo degli Eremitani
The Museo degli Eremitani is housed in a former Augustinian monastery that was built in the 13th century. The monastery was suppressed in 1806 and the Museo degli Eremitani was officially opened the following year. The museum's collections include works of art from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
The Museo degli Eremitani originated from the idea of safeguarding artworks which, due to historical circumstances, were relocated during the Enlightenment period. In fact, after the Republic of Venice's suppression of religious orders in 1768, various artistic works originally housed within Venetian territory were transferred and stored in Padua. At the beginning of the 19th century, with the advent of the French and then Austrian rule, some works reached the Eremitani Museum where they set the foundation for the initial museum collection.
Highlights of the Collection
The Museo degli Eremitani is home to a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including some of the most important works of Giotto, Mantegna and Bellini.
Giotto's frescoes in the Ovetari Chapel
Giotto di Bondone was an Italian painter and architect from Florence who is considered one of the most important figures in the development of Western art. His frescoes in the Ovetari Chapel are among his most famous works and depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and the childhood of Jesus. The frescoes are characterized by their naturalism and emotional intensity, and they have been praised for their innovative use of perspective.
Mantegna's frescoes in the Chapel of the Ovetari
Andrea Mantegna was an Italian painter and engraver from Padua who is considered one of the most important figures in the development of Renaissance painting. His frescoes in the Chapel of the Ovetari depict scenes from the life of Saint James the Great and are considered to be among his masterpieces. The frescoes are characterized by their realism and their use of perspective, and they have been praised for their innovative use of light and shadow.
Bellini's altarpiece in the Chapel of the Ovetari
Giovanni Bellini was an Italian painter from Venice who is considered one of the most important figures in the development of Venetian painting. His altarpiece in the Chapel of the Ovetari depicts the Madonna and Child with Saints and is considered to be one of his masterpieces. The altarpiece is characterized by its rich colors and its use of perspective, and it has been praised for its beauty and its emotional impact.
The Ovetari Chapel
The Ovetari Chapel is a small chapel located within the Museo degli Eremitani. It was built in the 14th century by the Ovetari family, a wealthy family of merchants from Padua. The chapel is decorated with frescoes by Giotto, an important Italian painter of the Renaissance. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and the life of Christ. Giotto's frescoes are considered to be some of the most important works of art of the Renaissance.
The Ovetari Chapel was severely damaged during World War II when a bomb hit the roof and destroyed all but one of the frescoes. The remaining fresco, depicting the Lamentation of Christ, was saved because it was protected by a wooden panel.
After the war, the chapel was rebuilt and the frescoes were restored. The Ovetari Chapel is now one of the most popular attractions of the Museo degli Eremitani.
The Chapel of the Ovetari
The Chapel of the Ovetari is a small, rectangular chapel located within the Museo degli Eremitani. It was built between 1448 and 1450 by Antonio da Padova, who was a member of the Ovetari family. The chapel was originally intended to be a private oratory for the Ovetari family, but was later made available to the public.
The highlight of the Chapel of the Ovetari is its altarpiece, which was painted by Giovanni Bellini in the late 15th century. The altarpiece depicts the Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and is considered to be one of Bellini's most important works. The altarpiece is a masterpiece of the Venetian Renaissance and is characterized by its rich colors and intricate details. Other works of art in the chapel include frescoes by Mantegna, which depict scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
Museo degli Eremitani Gardens
The Museo degli Eremitani 13th century by the Augustinian monks who founded the monastery, the gardens were redesigned in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. Today, the gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, including roses, lavender, and jasmine, as well as a collection of ancient trees, including a majestic oak tree that is over 500 years old.
The gardens are a popular spot for relaxation and contemplation, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, take a seat on one of the many benches, or admire the views of the surrounding buildings, including the Museo degli Eremitani itself. The gardens are also home to a number of sculptures, including a bronze statue of the Virgin Mary by the artist Donatello.
In addition to their aesthetic value, the gardens also serve an important educational function. They are home to a collection of medicinal plants, and visitors can learn about the traditional uses of these plants in herbal medicine. The gardens are also a popular spot for birdwatching, as a variety of birds, including goldfinches, blackbirds, and robins, can be seen here.
The Museo degli Eremitani Gardens are open to the public from April to October, and admission is free.
Visitor Information
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Admission fees:
- Full price: €8
- Reduced price: €4 (for students, seniors, and children)
- Free admission: for children under 6 and disabled visitors
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Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9am to 5pm
- Closed on Mondays
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Guided tours:
- Guided tours are available in English, Italian, and German.
- Tours must be booked in advance.
- The cost of a guided tour is €3 per person.
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Facilities:
- The museum has a bookshop and a café.
- The café has outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying a coffee or snack in the Museum's gardens.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to the Museo degli Eremitani
By public transportation
The Museo degli Eremitani is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest bus stop is "Eremitani", which is served by bus lines 11, 12, 13, and 1From the bus stop, it is just a short walk to the museum.
By car
If you are arriving by car, there are several parking garages located near the Museo degli Eremitani. The closest parking garage is the "Garage Eremitani", which is located on Via Eremitani.
By foot
The Museo degli Eremitani is also located within walking distance of the Padua train station. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from the train station to the museum.
Where to Eat Near the Museo degli Eremitani
After visiting the Museo degli Eremitani, you may want to grab a bite to eat. There are several restaurants located near the museum, offering a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes and budgets.
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Ristorante Da Nane is a popular choice for traditional Italian cuisine. The menu features classic dishes such as pasta dishes, pizzas, and grilled meats. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
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Osteria del Bacaro is a great option for those looking for a more casual dining experience. The restaurant serves a variety of small plates, or "cicchetti," which are perfect for sharing. The osteria also has a good selection of wines and craft beers.
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Caffè Pedrocchi is a historic café that is located just steps from the Museo degli Eremitani. The café has been in operation since 1831 and is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. Caffè Pedrocchi serves a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches.
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Gelateria Grom is a must-visit for anyone who loves gelato. The gelateria offers a wide variety of flavors, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The gelato is creamy and delicious, and it's the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.
Where to Stay Near the Museo degli Eremitani
Padua offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors to the Museo degli Eremitani. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly hostel, you'll find something to suit your needs.
Here's a list of some recommended hotels near the museum:
- Hotel Donatello: This 4-star hotel is located just steps from the Museo degli Eremitani and offers elegant rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
- Hotel Europa: Another 4-star hotel, Hotel Europa is located a short walk from the museum and offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop terrace.
- Bed and Breakfast Ai Tolentini: This charming B&B is located in a quiet neighborhood just a few minutes' walk from the museum. It offers cozy rooms with private bathrooms and a delicious breakfast buffet each morning.
- Hostel S. Francesco: For budget-minded travelers, Hostel S. Francesco offers dormitory-style accommodations in a historic building just a few steps from the museum.
The price range for hotels in Padua varies depending on the time of year, the location, and the amenities offered. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from €50 to €200 per night for a hotel room in Padua.
No matter where you choose to stay, you'll be sure to enjoy your time in Padua. The city has much to offer visitors, including world-class museums, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine.
Accessibility
The Museo degli Eremitani is committed to ensuring that all visitors have an enjoyable and accessible experience, regardless of their mobility or disability.
Wheelchair users and visitors with reduced mobility can easily access the museum. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, and there are elevators that provide access to all floors of the museum building.
The museum also offers special programs for visitors with disabilities. These programs include guided tours in sign language, touch tours for visitors with visual impairments, and audio descriptions of the museum's exhibits.
To inquire about accessibility services or to schedule a special program, visitors can contact the museum's visitor services department in advance.
Events and Exhibitions
The Museo degli Eremitani regularly hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year. These events and exhibitions often focus on different aspects of the museum's collections or on the history and culture of Padua. Some of the upcoming events and exhibitions at the museum include:
- A temporary exhibition on the history of the Padua University, featuring documents and artifacts from the university's archives.
- A series of lectures on the art and architecture of the Museo degli Eremitani, given by experts in the field.
- A workshop on how to create your own fresco, using traditional techniques and materials.
- A concert of classical music performed by the Padua Chamber Orchestra in the courtyard of the museum.
Admission fees for events and exhibitions vary, but are typically quite reasonable. It is advisable to check the museum's website for a complete list of upcoming events and exhibitions, as well as for information on admission fees and times.
Things to Do in Padua After Visiting the Museo degli Eremitani
After visiting the Museo degli Eremitani, be sure to take some time to explore the rest of Padua. This beautiful city has much to offer visitors. Take a stroll through the historic center, visit the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, or relax in one of the many parks.
Here are a few ideas for things to do in Padua after visiting the Museo degli Eremitani:
- Visit the Basilica di Sant'Antonio: This beautiful church is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Padua. It is home to the tomb of Saint Anthony, one of the most beloved saints in Italy.
- Take a walk through the Prato della Valle: This large park is located in the center of Padua. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Visit the Palazzo della Ragione: This historic building is home to the city's law courts. It is also one of the most recognizable landmarks in Padua.
- Visit the Scrovegni Chapel: This small chapel is home to some of the most beautiful frescoes in the world. They were painted by Giotto, one of the most famous artists of the Italian Renaissance.
- Visit the Orto Botanico di Padova: This botanical garden is one of the oldest in the world. It is home to a wide variety of plants from all over the world.
Insider Tip
The best time to visit the Museo degli Eremitani is in the morning, when the light is best for admiring the frescoes. To fully appreciate the artwork, consider booking a guided tour in English. This will allow you to learn more about the history of the museum and the significance of the works on display. After your visit, relax in the museum café and enjoy a refreshing drink or snack while taking in the beautiful surroundings of the gardens.
