Museo Diocesano

In the heart of the picturesque city of Ascoli Piceno, Italy, stands a hidden gem of art and history: the Museo Diocesano. Nestled in the right wing of the historic Episcopal Palace on Piazza Arringo, this museum, known in the local language as Museo diocesano, offers a captivating journey through centuries of sacred art and religious heritage. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Museo Diocesano promises a rich and rewarding experience.

The Origins and Evolution of the Museo Diocesano

The Museo Diocesano was established with a noble mission: to gather and preserve the artistic treasures belonging to the Diocese of Ascoli Piceno. It was inaugurated in 1961 by Bishop Marcello Morgante, who envisioned a sanctuary where the diocese's rich artistic heritage could be safeguarded and celebrated. The museum's collection spans from the 13th and 14th centuries to the present day, offering a comprehensive overview of the region's artistic evolution.

The museum underwent significant restoration and expansion between 2018 and 2019, following the 2016 earthquake that affected the region. These renovations not only strengthened and restored the building but also expanded the exhibition space and included new objects in the collection. The museum reopened to the public in July 2023, welcoming visitors with free admission from Tuesday to Sunday.

Exploring the Museum's Seven Halls

The Museo Diocesano's exhibition space is divided into seven distinct halls, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's artistic and religious heritage.

Sala del Prologo - Trinità: This hall is home to a remarkable polychrome terracotta cross dating back to between 1430 and 1450. The intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors of this piece are a testament to the artistic skill of the period.

Galleria - Arte Orafa: The gallery spans the entire exhibition space and showcases a dazzling array of precious metalwork. Highlights include a pre-16th-century processional cross influenced by Abruzzese art, a wooden casket adorned with ivory decorations representing the wise and foolish virgins, and silver statues of Saint Emygdius and the Madonna of Loreto, crafted by the Florentine goldsmith Curzio Compagni in the 17th century.

Sala 1: This hall primarily features paintings by the Venetian painter Carlo Crivelli, who was active in the Ascoli region from 1468, and his prominent pupil Pietro Alamanno. Notable works include Crivelli's Madonna of Poggio di Bretta (circa 1470-1472) and Alamanno's 1485 altarpiece from Cerreto di Venarotta. The hall also houses a fascinating altar frontal woven with silk and gold threads from the late 15th century, originally from the Ascoli Cathedral.

Sala 2: Here, visitors can admire paintings by Cola dell'Amatrice, including the Altarpiece of Saint Victor (1517). The hall also features a canvas depicting the Adoration of the Shepherds, attributed to either Giovanni Andrea De Magistris or an unidentified Romagnolo artist from the 1530s.

Sale 3 and 4: These halls are dedicated to Baroque art, showcasing works by Carlo Allegretti, Ludovico Trasi, and Nicola Monti. A standout piece is Monti's Miracle of Christ from the 18th century.

Sala 5 or Sala dell'Eden: This hall, once the residence of the vicar general of Ascoli, derives its name from the travertine columns depicting Adam and Eve. It houses the reliquary arm of Saint Emygdius, a masterpiece by Pietro Vannini from the 15th century, as well as Baroque paintings and a 15th-century coffered ceiling adorned with rosettes.

Notable Works of Art

The Museo Diocesano boasts several masterpieces that are not to be missed:

Statue of Saint Emygdius by Pietro Vannini: Created in 1482, this silver statue commemorates the granting of ecclesiastical liberty to Ascoli by Pope Sixtus IV. Standing at 152 cm tall, the statue depicts the city's patron saint in pontifical attire, blessing with his right hand and holding a pastoral staff in his left. The intricate details, from the expressive face to the richly decorated vestments, make this piece a highlight of the museum.

Reliquary Arm of Saint Emygdius by Pietro Vannini: This 87 cm tall gilded silver reliquary, fashioned in the shape of a forearm and hand in blessing, contains a relic of Saint Emygdius. The meticulous craftsmanship, including the brocade-patterned sleeve and the precious stones adorning the clasp, showcases the skill of the 15th-century goldsmiths.

Florentine Pastoral Staff from the 16th Century: This 180 cm long silver pastoral staff, attributed to the renowned artist Giorgio Vasari, was donated to the Ascoli Chapter by Cardinal Girolamo Bernerio. The staff's Renaissance design features acanthus leaves, a small figure of the blessing Christ Child, and niches with depictions of the Madonna of Loreto, Saint Emygdius, Saint Francis, and Saint Dominic.

A Journey Through Time and Art

Visiting the Museo Diocesano in Ascoli Piceno is like stepping into a time machine that transports you through centuries of religious art and history. Each hall and each piece tells a story of faith, devotion, and artistic excellence. The museum's free admission and convenient opening hours make it an accessible and enriching destination for all.

So, whether you're wandering through the charming streets of Ascoli Piceno or specifically seeking out its cultural treasures, the Museo Diocesano is a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this remarkable collection, and let the art and artifacts guide you through the spiritual and artistic heritage of this enchanting Italian city.