Museo del Carnevale

Discover the Glorious History of Viareggio Carnival at Museo del Carnevale

Located in the heart of Viareggio, the Museo del Carnevale is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history and artistic evolution of the Viareggio Carnival. This unique museum, housed within the Citadel of the Carnival, offers visitors a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the captivating world of cartapesta (papier-mâché) and the renowned Viareggio Carnival floats.

Unveiling the Secrets of Cartapesta

At the Citadel Museum, visitors can delve into the secrets and tricks of cartapesta, the traditional art of creating sculptures using papier-mâché. Through original documents, sketches, posters, and models, the museum tells the glorious history of the Carnival of Viareggio, spanning over 150 years.

A Timeline of Artistic Evolution

The museum takes visitors on a chronological journey, starting from 1873 and leading up to the inauguration of the Cittadella del Carnevale in 2001. This timeline showcases the artistic evolution of the Viareggio Carnival through a selection of images, documenting its growth and transformation over the decades.

Reliving the City's Carnival Heritage

One of the highlights of the Museo del Carnevale is the exhibition of miniature models, which serve as a nostalgic reminder of the places in Viareggio where the Carnival has flourished. These models pay tribute to the dedication of the artists and the passion of the citizens who have nurtured the Carnival throughout its history.

A Journey Through Time and Tradition

The first-floor exhibition hall of the museum, named after the iconic Carnival character Burlamacco, offers visitors a captivating journey through time. Here, visitors can explore a combination of documentary evidence and three-dimensional reconstructions, immersing themselves in the history of the Viareggio Carnival. The exhibition not only showcases the past but also highlights the contemporary Carnival, with its year-round productivity, from the organization of masked parades to the preparation of sketches and the demolition of constructions to make way for new masterpieces.

The Artistic Essence of Viareggio Carnival

The Museo del Carnevale is home to a remarkable oil painting by Beppe Domenici, dating back to 1953. This large-scale artwork, measuring 2x2.80 meters, captures the essence of the Viareggio Carnival. The painting, which depicts a scene from the masked parade, has become an integral part of the museum's art collection, symbolizing the spirit and artistry of the Carnival's master builders.

Plan Your Visit

The Museo del Carnevale is an essential stop for anyone visiting Viareggio. The museum is open to the public and offers free admission for children up to 11 years old when accompanied by an adult. Visitors can explore the various exhibition spaces, including the experiential Espace Gilbert, the Historical Archive, the papier-mâché workshops, and the ground floor of the museum, which introduces visitors to the fascinating world of Italian and European carnival traditions.

To fully immerse yourself in the history and artistry of the Viareggio Carnival, plan your visit to the Museo del Carnevale during your stay in Viareggio. The museum's knowledgeable staff and captivating exhibits will transport you into the vibrant world of this renowned carnival celebration.