The Diocesan Museum of Albenga: a journey through art and history in the heart of the Old Town

The museum was founded in 1964 by the will of Bishop Alessandro Piazza. Its home, the Episcopal Palace, is itself a work of art — built on ancient Roman ruins and enriched over the centuries with frescoes and decorations.

The collections are divided by themes and historical periods:

• Archaeological Finds: on the ground floor, the museum displays important local discoveries ranging from the Roman era to the Early Christian period. Among the most remarkable pieces are a mosaic fragment depicting the face of Ganymede (2nd century AD) and a 5th-century floor mosaic unearthed in the Baptistery.
• Sacred Artworks: the upper floors host a rich art gallery featuring works by Ligurian and non-Ligurian painters from the Renaissance to the Baroque period. The collection includes paintings, wooden sculptures, and precious liturgical furnishings. The masterpiece of the museum is “The Crucified Christ between the Madonna and Saint John” by Ludovico Brea, a 15th-century work.

The exhibition path

The exhibition is designed to guide visitors through the historical and artistic evolution of the region. The archaeological finds narrate the origins of Albenga as the Roman Albium Ingaunum, while the sacred artworks highlight the deep bond between the local community, faith, and artistic tradition. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

Visitor Information

• Address: Via Episcopio, 5, 17031 Albenga (SV)
• Opening Hours:
  • Tuesday to Sunday:
    • Morning: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
    • Afternoon: 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
  • Monday: open only by reservation for groups of at least ten people.
  • Note: The Early Christian Baptistery, being an active place of worship, may be temporarily closed (for about one hour) during baptism ceremonies.
• Ticket Prices:
  • Combined Ticket (Museum + Baptistery):
    • Full: €10.00
    • Reduced: €8.00
    • Special (parish and school groups): €6.00
    • Family Discount: only the two parents and the first child pay (other children enter free).
  • Museum Only:
    • Full: €8.00
    • Reduced*: €7.00
    • Special (parish and school groups): €5.00
    • Family Discount: only the two parents and the first child pay.
  • Baptistery Only:
    • Full: €6.00
    • Reduced*: €5.00
    • Special (parish and school groups): €4.00
    • Family Discount: only the two parents and the first child pay.
• Contacts:
  • Phone:
    • +39 0182 579310 (main office)
    • +39 347 808 5811 (mobile)
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Official Website (Diocese of Albenga-Imperia – Museum Section): http://museo.diocesidialbengaimperia.it/

Cover photo credits: Luca Ravera, Google Maps