Museo Medievale di Fossanova

About the museum

The museum is housed in the former Cistercian guesthouse of the village of Fossanova, in the municipality of Priverno, a 13th-century setting that frames the story. The route traces moments of medieval life in the ancient city of Privernum and, at the same time, the birth and development of the Fossanova monastic complex.

The first part is dedicated to the final phases of Roman Privernum, from the 6th to the 12th century, with important early medieval evidence from the ancient city. Of particular note is the sculptural and painted decoration of its oldest Christian church: 9th-century pilasters, capitals and architraves of the presbytery screen, worked with floral and interlace motifs, and an 11th-century fresco of the Virgin Orant and Queen, accompanied by two donors and the archangels Michael and Gabriel.

The second part traces the development of the abbey complex, illustrated by large watercolours that reconstruct its ancient architecture. They are flanked by sculptural elements of the liturgical furnishings of the abbey church and objects from the daily life of the Cistercian monks. The museum is part of the Priverno Musei urban museum system.

Highlights

• 9th-century presbytery screen with interlace motifs
• 11th-century fresco of the Virgin Orant and Queen
• Watercolour reconstructions of the Fossanova abbey
• Sculptural liturgical furnishings and objects of Cistercian monastic life
• Thirteenth-century Cistercian guesthouse

Founded

2001

Operated by

Comune di Priverno

Admission & discounts

Also free for tourist guides and teachers visiting with a class. Admission to the church and cloister of the Fossanova abbey is separate and does not require the museum ticket. With a standard ticket, reduced entry to the other Priverno Musei venues is available on the same day.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Full mobility inside the museum for people with mobility impairments is ensured by ramps, electromechanical platforms and a lift.

Kids & families

A family ticket is available for family groups with children under 18 (valid for one week at all museums in Priverno).

Getting there & parking

The museum is in the former Cistercian guesthouse, in the village of Fossanova, next to the abbey.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit