International Museum and Library of Music
Explore centuries of musical history through rare instruments, portraits, and a breathtaking Baroque library.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
International Museum and Library of Music
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of musical history through rare instruments, portraits, and a breathtaking Baroque library.
"A superb museum for anyone interested in the history of music; the exhibits are absolutely fascinating."
📚 Check for Free Student Entry
Students may get free entry with valid ID, so be sure to ask at the ticket counter! :ticket:
🗣️ Prepare for Italian/German
Most exhibits are in Italian and German. Consider a translation app for a richer experience. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Padre Martini's Portrait Collection
Main exhibition halls
A stunning collection of portraits of famous musicians, offering a visual journey through music history.
Archicembalo and Clavemusicum
Instrument display
Marvel at unique historical instruments like Nicola Vicentino's Archicembalo and Vito Trasuntino's Clavemusicum.
Baroque Library Interior
Library section
Step into a breathtaking Baroque library with painted ceilings and ornate architecture, a true bibliophile's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tours
Check Exhibition Languages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Check for Free Student Entry
Students may get free entry with valid ID, so be sure to ask at the ticket counter! :ticket:
🗣️ Prepare for Italian/German
Most exhibits are in Italian and German. Consider a translation app for a richer experience. :iphone:
🤫 Quiet Atmosphere
This is a very quiet museum, perfect for contemplation and appreciating the exhibits without much distraction.
🏛️ Admire the Building
The elegant interior design of the building itself is a highlight, complementing the museum's atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Check for Free Student Entry
Students may get free entry with valid ID, so be sure to ask at the ticket counter! :ticket:
🗣️ Prepare for Italian/German
Most exhibits are in Italian and German. Consider a translation app for a richer experience. :iphone:
🤫 Quiet Atmosphere
This is a very quiet museum, perfect for contemplation and appreciating the exhibits without much distraction.
🏛️ Admire the Building
The elegant interior design of the building itself is a highlight, complementing the museum's atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum for its fascinating exhibits on music history, particularly the unique historical instruments and the stunning Baroque library. The elegant building interior is also a highlight. However, some find the lack of English translations and interactive elements limiting, and note that the collection, while significant, is not as extensive as a large international museum might suggest.
"This is a superb museum, if you are at all interested in the history of music.- in fact it's a must. The exhibits are absolutely fascinating, some quite breathtaking, and mostly marked in Italian and German. Well worth a visit!!"
Gwendolen Webster
"It was very interesting to see old musical instruments, to find out more about the famous musicians. Very quiet museum, not very many visitors."
Sviatlana H
"Small but very nice exhibition, well decorated. It's an elegant story about the solo contribution of Mr. Martini (if I'm not mistaken the name) on collecting and organising the history of music in his period. I would not claim it "international music museum" as it's misleading.
The atmosphere is more of a gallery rather than a music museum where you have music played in all rooms. There is no interactive part, no translations in English on the labels and we haven't been proposed to the option of audio guide even though some icons suggest it.
The interior design of the building is very nice and compliments the elegant atmosphere. The lady on the entrance was very charming and positive.
The ticket of 5 euro is ok for the place."
Dessyslava Stoichkova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Bologna, making it accessible by public transport. Many visitors arrive on foot if staying nearby. If coming from further afield, local buses are a convenient option.
Parking in central Bologna can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or walk if possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Some TikToks mention specific limited opening times for certain library sections.
Entry is generally affordable, with a ticket price of around 5 euros. Students may be eligible for free entry with proof of status.
While not always mandatory for the museum itself, booking tours for specific areas like the Baroque library is highly recommended as they can sell out quickly.
Yes, students often receive free admission upon presentation of a valid student ID.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore fascinating exhibits of historical musical instruments, a significant collection of portraits of famous musicians, and a beautiful Baroque library.
The museum is more of a traditional gallery experience, focusing on displays rather than interactive elements.
While some icons suggest audio guides, they may not always be offered. It's worth inquiring upon arrival.
The majority of exhibit labels are in Italian and German. English translations may be limited.
While children can appreciate the visual aspects of the instruments and the ornate library, the lack of interactive elements and language barriers might make it more engaging for older children or those with a specific interest in music history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the museum itself. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area of Bologna.
It's generally not permitted to consume food and drinks inside museum galleries to protect the exhibits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions, especially in the library.
The Baroque library with its painted ceilings and the display of historical instruments are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Aficionados
🏛️ Architecture & History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Baroque Library
This library is not just a repository of books; it's a masterpiece of Baroque design. The intricate details and the sheer scale of the collection create an atmosphere where time seems to slow down. It's a place that inspires quiet contemplation and a feeling of stepping back into a different era.
A Journey Through Musical Instruments
Beyond these specific highlights, the exhibition provides insights into the solo contributions of figures like Padre Giovanni Battista Martini in collecting and organizing musical history.
Padre Martini: The Visionary Collector
Martini's role as a collector and organizer was crucial in establishing the foundation for what is now the International Museum and Library of Music.
Social
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