Exhibitions open over Easter, Liberation Day and May Day: must-see shows

Exhibitions open over Easter, Liberation Day and May Day

If you are arranging cultural visits for the spring holidays, here is a curated list of exhibitions open on public holidays. The selections range from modern and contemporary art to classical painting, offering suitable options for festive-day visits.

Naples – Joan Miró (until April 26)

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore alla Pietrasanta hosts a show focused on Joan Miró, featuring a large collection of lithographs and works on paper from private collections. The exhibition highlights the interplay between word and image in Miró's practice and showcases recurring themes such as the female figure, birds and his iconic Personnages.

• Works on display: about 120 items, mainly lithographs.
• Highlights: LP cover designs, original color lithographs and thematic reproductions.
• Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9:30–19:30; Sat–Sun and holidays 9:30–20:30.
• Practical info: organizer contacts available for bookings and details.

Parma – Impressionists: from Monet to Bonnard (until May 31)

At Palazzo Tarasconi, an exhibition traces the Impressionist legacy with over 70 works by more than 30 artists, including paintings attributed to Claude Monet. The show focuses on light and its representation, presenting oil paintings, watercolours and prints.

• Artists included: Monet, Bonnard, Alfred Sisley, Giovanni Boldini, among others.
• Approach: juxtaposition of early and mature works to explore Monet's artistic development.
• Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9:30–19:30; Sat–Sun and holidays 9:30–20:30.

Rome – Caravaggio and Matisse (until June 28)

The Museum of the Infantry and the Italian Army presents two parallel exhibitions: one on Caravaggism and one on the late work of Henri Matisse. The Caravaggist section focuses on the influence of Caravaggio's dramatic light, while the Matisse show displays extensive works on paper and artist books from his final creative period.

• Main attractions: an oil attributed to Caravaggio among other works; drawings and prints by Matisse totaling more than 100 pieces.
• Tickets: combined tickets available at the museum box office with different rates for weekdays and holidays.
• Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9:30–19:30; Sat–Sun and holidays 9:30–20:30.

Practical tips for visiting

To make the most of holiday visits:

• Always check current opening times on the organiser's website or by phone before you go.
• Buy tickets in advance when possible to avoid queues during weekends and public holidays.
• Look for reduced rates or special services if you are visiting with children or in a group.

These exhibitions provide a rich cultural offer for spring holidays: from Miró’s experimental imagery to the light-driven legacy of the Impressionists, and the dramatic realism of Caravaggio to Matisse’s late paper works.