Museo delle genti d'Abruzzo

About the museum

The museum was founded in May 1973 at the initiative of the Archeoclub of Pescara, which set up a permanent educational archaeological exhibition, and of ASTRA (Association for the Study of Abruzzo Traditions), which created the Museo delle Tradizioni Popolari (Museum of Folk Traditions). The two collections were housed for some years in premises adjoining the birthplace of Gabriele D’Annunzio. In 1982 the materials were donated to the municipality of Pescara to form a single exhibition and research institution. In 1998 the two associations and the municipality founded the Fondazione Genti d’Abruzzo, which runs the museum today.

The seat is in the building of the Bourbon barracks, what remains of the fortress of Pescara built by Charles V from 1510 onwards. In the 19th century the basement was used as a warehouse and as a penal bath of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, where many patriots of the Abruzzo Risorgimento were imprisoned. Since 1982 these rooms have housed the museum’s galleries.

The route, which extends over two floors for more than 700 square metres, traces the history of humankind in Abruzzo from the Palaeolithic hunter to the Industrial Revolution. Its central theme is cultural continuity, illustrated with archaeological finds, costumes, everyday objects, multimedia tools and educational workshops. The building also houses a library, an auditorium, the Caffè Letterario and a shop.

Highlights

• Route from prehistory to the Industrial Revolution in Abruzzo
• Galleries in the basement of the former Bourbon penal bath
• Archaeological finds and objects of Abruzzo’s folk traditions
• Multimedia tools and educational workshops
• Caffè Letterario and library inside the museum

Permanent exhibition

• Percorso permanente sulla storia dell'uomo in Abruzzo – Galleries on two floors devoted to prehistory, the Italic and Roman periods, folk traditions and everyday life up to the Industrial Revolution.

Founded

1973

Operated by

Fondazione Genti d'Abruzzo

Visitors per year

approx. 12,186

Admission & discounts

Free admission also for members of ASTRA, Archeoclub and ICOM; blood donors from Avis and Fidas enter the permanent exhibition “Risorgimento in Abruzzo” free of charge. Reduced rate for FAI members, Abruzzo B&B, employees of the Pescara police headquarters and of the prison administration, university students and Viviparchi members; 50% for Touring Club members; discount with the Card of the Montesilvano Tourist Consortium. Tickets are bought at the entrance or online.

Accessibility

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

There are no architectural barriers in the rooms; the upper floor can be reached by a stairlift. Routes and workshops for special needs on request (085 451 0026, ext. 1). Guide dogs and assistance dogs are admitted, as are animals for pet therapy with a medical certificate, and small and medium-sized dogs on a lead or carried.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Stroller-friendly
• Baby changing facilities
• Kids’ birthday parties

“Family and kids friendly” museum: by booking, guided routes designed for families and workshops for adults and children, animated fairy tales, a puppet theatre and birthday parties in the museum. Breastfeeding area with changing table; pushchairs admitted.

Getting there & parking

Parking near the museum (listed on the website); e-scooter hire with the Helbiz app.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Restaurant
• Museum shop

Caffè Letterario with restaurant; shop at the entrance with publications, children’s books, postcards and gadgets.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Weddings / ceremonies

Rooms can be rented for events and birthday parties; it is possible to get married at the museum.

Plan your visit