Museum of Glass Art: the heart of Altare and its ancient tradition

The Museum of Glass Art in Altare is a key cultural institution for the history and identity of Altare, a small village in western Liguria. Founded in 1993, the museum is entirely dedicated to celebrating the centuries-old tradition of glassmaking that made the town famous throughout Europe.

The venue and its history

The museum is housed in a place of deep historical significance: Villa Rosa, an elegant Art Nouveau residence built at the beginning of the 20th century for the Bordoni family of glassmakers. The building itself stands as a testament to the importance that glass art achieved for the local economy and community. The exhibition unfolds through the rooms of the villa, offering an experience that blends the art of glass with period architecture.

The collections and the art of glass

The museum’s collections are the result of extensive work to recover and preserve a nearly lost heritage. The exhibits span from the 17th to the 20th century, tracing the evolution of techniques, styles, and glass productions of Altare. Among the displayed pieces, visitors can admire:

• Everyday and decorative glassware: glasses, bottles, vials, demijohns, and other handcrafted objects that reflect both daily life and the artisans’ mastery.
• Artistic glass: true works of art that showcase the creativity and skill of the glass masters, with intricate shapes and vibrant colors.
• Work tools: original instruments from the old glassworks that illustrate the complex and fascinating processes of glassblowing and shaping.

Another important section of the museum is dedicated to the Historical Archive, which preserves documents, catalogs, photographs, and registers recounting the history of the glassworks, the families who managed them, and the craftsmen who spread the name of Altare across the world—from France to Argentina.

An educational experience

The Museum of Glass Art is not only an exhibition space but also a center for study and dissemination. It often hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational activities aimed at preserving and passing on the knowledge of this ancient craft. For visitors, it offers a unique opportunity to admire objects of rare beauty and to understand the historical and economic importance that glassmaking has had for the region.

Visitor Information

• Address: Via della Repubblica, 258, 17041 Altare (SV)
• Contacts:
  • Phone: 019 584556 / 347 137 6089
  • Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.museodelvetro.it
• Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays. Tuesday to Sunday: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Tickets:
  • Full: €5.00
  • Reduced: €3.00 (for over 65s, university students, and groups of more than 15 people)
  • Free: for children up to 6 years old and other specific categories

Cover photo credits: Roberto Brambilla, Google Maps