The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) is one of the most important in the world for classical archaeology. Here's an overview to help you discover it better:
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🏛️ History & Location
Founded by order of Charles III of Bourbon in 1777 and opened to the public in 1816 as the Royal Bourbon Museum.
Located in an ancient 16th-century building at Piazza Museo 19, the former barracks and university, now a MiBACT heritage site.
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🎯 Main Collections
Farnese Collection (basement and ground floor): masterpieces such as the Tazza Farnese and the colossal Toro Farnese, the largest marble sculpture from antiquity.
Pompei/Herculaneum finds: famous mosaics such as the Battle of Issus and the Dancing Faun, frescoes such as "Flora," and Roman surgical instruments.
Egyptian Section (basement): second in Italy only to the Egyptian Museum in Turin.
Secret Cabinet: explicit frescoes of Roman eroticism, accessible to adults only.
Neapolis Station: artifacts excavated during metro construction, from prehistoric times to the Spanish period.
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🕒 Hours and Tickets
Open Wednesday to Monday, 9:00–19:30 (last admission 18:30); closed Tuesdays and December 25th.
Prices:
Free for under 18s and disabled visitors; reduced (18–25 years) €2; full €20; possible promotions such as free admission on Sundays.
Sunday at the museum: free admission for all (government initiative). Warning: it can get crowded – advance booking recommended.
The most sensitive collections (Magna Graecia section) require shoe covers in the corridors.
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🌟 Future Projects
"MANN2" is coming soon, a new exhibition space dedicated to Pompeii in the Real Albergo dei Poveri: 10,000m² and scheduled to open in 2026.
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📝 Visiting Tips
Book your ticket online, especially on free Sundays or weekends.
Allow at least 2–3 hours to appreciate the main collections.
Entrance by metro: Museo stop (Line 1) or Piazza Cavour stop (Line 2).
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The MANN is an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Naples: a journey rich in art, history, and discovery—from Pompeii to Egyptian mummies, passing through classical masterpieces like the Farnese Bull. Need help choosing a tour or planning a visit?
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