Museo Pio IX

In the heart of Senigallia, a charming town in the Marche region of Italy, lies a hidden gem of historical and cultural significance: the Museo Pio IX. This museum, housed in the Palazzo Mastai Ferretti, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of Pope Pius IX, born Giovanni Maria Mastai Ferretti. The museum is a treasure trove of art, history, and personal artifacts, all beautifully preserved within the very walls where the future pope was born.

The History of Museo Pio IX

The Palazzo Mastai Ferretti has a storied history that dates back to 1557 when the Mastai Ferretti family first established themselves in Senigallia. Over the centuries, the palazzo changed hands several times, belonging to notable families such as the Augusti, the Augusti Arsilli, and the Bellegarde from Saint Lary, France. It wasn't until the late 19th century that the palazzo returned to the Mastai family.

The museum was inaugurated in 1892, and by 1896, a catalog of its works had been compiled. However, many pieces were sold at an auction in Milan, leading to the museum's closure. The palazzo itself was auctioned off and acquired by the Archbishop of New York in 1909. It was later granted to the Diocese of Senigallia. After suffering significant damage from earthquakes in 1930 and 1972, the museum underwent extensive restorations and was reopened on February 8, 1976. Today, it stands enriched with a wealth of historical and artistic content.

Exploring the Museo Pio IX

As you step into the Museo Pio IX, you are immediately transported back in time. The ground floor houses the library, while the first floor is dedicated to an array of artworks, furniture, and objects that once belonged to Pope Pius IX. The museum is divided into several themed rooms, each offering a unique perspective on the life and legacy of the pontiff.

The Sala di Rappresentanza

The first room, known as the Sala di Rappresentanza or the Hall of Representations, is where the Mastai Ferretti family held receptions and ceremonies. The room is adorned with 17 canvases depicting episodes from the Old Testament, four sibyls, and a self-portrait of the artist Giovanni Anastasi, a native of Senigallia renowned in the 17th and 18th centuries. The room also features three chests from the Marche school of the same period, recently attributed to Anastasi.

The Sala dell'Amnistia

The second room, called the Sala dell'Amnistia or the Hall of Amnesty, is named after the amnesty declared on July 16, 1846. The room's furnishings include various objects used by Pope Pius IX, including some liturgical vestments. The ceiling, decorated with stucco, is the only part of the building that remained undamaged by the devastating earthquake of October 30, 1930.

The Sala dei Viaggi and the Sala della Tavola delle Medaglie

Next, you will find the Sala dei Viaggi or the Hall of Travels, which contains paintings depicting scenes from the pope's journeys. The following room, the Sala della Tavola delle Medaglie or the Hall of the Medal Table, features a collection of commemorative medals from Pius IX's 32-year pontificate. The room is also home to numerous paintings from the 1500s to the 1700s, an ivory crucifix, and a model of the column erected in Piazza di Spagna in 1856 in honor of the Immaculate Conception.

The Birth Room and the Chapel

The birth room of Pope Pius IX is preserved with a canopy bed and clothing used during his stays in Senigallia. The room also displays several paintings featuring portraits of Pius IX and his family. A corridor lined with documents related to the pontificate leads to a small chapel, where the altar is adorned with a painting of the Madonna dei Sassoferrato.

The Medals and Coins Room

The final room in the museum showcases a collection of commemorative medals and coins issued by the Mint of the Papal States between 1846 and 1878. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the historical events and milestones of Pius IX's lengthy papacy.

The Museo Pio IX in Senigallia is not just a museum; it is a journey through time, offering visitors an intimate look at the life of one of the most significant figures in the Catholic Church's history. With its rich collection of art, historical documents, and personal belongings, the museum provides a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the life of Pope Pius IX, the Museo Pio IX is a must-visit destination in Senigallia.