The Diocesan Museum of Gerace: a Treasure of Sacred Art

The Diocesan Museum of Gerace, located in the town of the same name in the province of Reggio Calabria, is a precious guardian of the artistic and religious heritage of the Diocese. Set within the 18th-century Episcopal Palace, the museum offers a fascinating journey through centuries of devotion, art, and local history, gathering works from churches throughout the region.

History and Collections

The museum was founded with the purpose of safeguarding and enhancing the ecclesiastical assets dispersed across the diocesan territory, many of which were at risk due to abandonment or the earthquakes that have historically affected the area.

The collection features a wide variety of artifacts, including:

• Sculptures: wooden and marble works ranging from the medieval period to the Baroque era.
• Paintings: canvases belonging to the Calabrian and Neapolitan schools.
• Sacred Goldsmithing: exquisite objects crafted in gold and silver.
• Liturgical Vestments: magnificent embroidered garments used during religious ceremonies.
• Manuscripts and Documents: written records that trace the long and rich history of the Diocese.

Visitor Information

• Address: Piazza Duomo, 1 – 89040 Gerace (RC)
• Contacts:
  • Tel: +39 0964 356323
  • Website: http://www.diocesigerace.it/
• Opening Hours:
  • Summer: daily from 9:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Winter: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Tickets: admission to the museum, which is part of the FAI (Italian Environmental Fund) network, is often free or based on voluntary donations. Visitors are advised to check the official website or inquire upon arrival for updated information on entry conditions.

Cover photo credits: Luigi Agostino, Google Maps