Museum of the Twentieth and Contemporary Century of Palazzo Fabroni: Modern Art in the Heart of Pist

The Museo del Novecento e del Contemporaneo di Palazzo Fabroni in Pistoia stands as a major landmark for modern and contemporary art in Tuscany.

Far more than a simple exhibition space, it is a dynamic center for research, creativity, and cultural dialogue, where the elegance of a historic noble residence meets the expressive power of 20th- and 21st-century art.

Palazzo Fabroni: From Nobility to Contemporary Art

The museum is housed in the magnificent Palazzo Fabroni, a historic building blending medieval and Renaissance architecture, located in the very heart of Pistoia’s old town.

Once the residence of an important noble family, the palace underwent a meticulous restoration at the end of the 20th century, transforming it into a modern exhibition space.

The architectural renovation successfully preserved the charm of the ancient interiors while creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present — where frescoed ceilings and stone vaults coexist with abstract paintings and experimental installations.

This fusion of history and innovation makes the visit a truly unique and immersive experience.

The Collections: A Bridge Between Past and Future

Spread across multiple floors, the museum’s exhibition route offers a comprehensive overview of artistic evolution throughout the 20th century, with special attention to the connections between artists and the Pistoia region.

🎨 The Permanent Collection

The galleries house an impressive selection of works by some of the most influential Italian and international artists of the modern era.

Highlights include masterpieces by Alberto Burri, a pioneer of Informalism renowned for his use of unconventional materials like burlap and plastic, and Lucio Fontana, whose iconic Tagli (slashes) redefined the concept of space in art.

A distinctive feature of the collection is its focus on local artists, particularly Fernando Melani, a visionary Pistoiese creator whose exploration of “anti-matter” and the relationship between art and environment has left a lasting mark on contemporary artistic thought.

🐎 The Marino Marini Section

A dedicated area celebrates one of Pistoia’s most illustrious native artists, Marino Marini.

While his monumental sculptures are exhibited in other major museums, here visitors can admire a precious collection of his graphic works, drawings, and etchings, documenting his studies on the human figure, horses, and the evolution of his expressive language.

🖼️ Temporary Exhibitions

Palazzo Fabroni is also known for its vibrant program of temporary exhibitions, featuring both emerging and established contemporary artists.

These ever-changing displays keep the museum at the forefront of artistic experimentation, offering visitors fresh perspectives on creativity and modern aesthetics.

Visitor Information

📍 Address: Via Sant’Andrea, 18 – Pistoia (PT)

📞 Phone: +39 0573 371214

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: www.museipalazzofabroni.it

🕘 Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Closed on Mondays.

🎟️ Tickets:

• Full: €8.00 (includes access to other civic museums in Pistoia, such as the Museo Civico d’Arte Antica)
• Reduced: €4.00 (students, over 65, and selected categories)
• Free: visitors under 18.

The Museum of the Twentieth and Contemporary Century of Palazzo Fabroni is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to explore modern art in an extraordinary historical setting.

Here, the soul of Pistoia’s past meets the innovation of the present, creating an experience that celebrates both tradition and the ever-evolving power of artistic expression.

Cover photo credits: Regione Toscana