Eremitani Museum, Padua

We aren't huge fans of museums and they are not on the top of our "Things to See" list, but the Eremitani Museum was included with our ticket to see the Cappella degli Scrovegni (Scrovegni Chapel) so we decided to have a wander around before we left. And I must say I was glad we did.

The Museum is a complex of museums and historic sites, centered around the former convent of the Eremitani and its famous Cappella degli Scrovegni. Not only does it include the chapel, it has nineteen rooms filled with objects dating back to 6th Century BC, a lapidary displaying architectural finds, and a sculpture park filled with contemporary art.

I am still amazed at the age of the items they have on display and the history surrounding them. History was not one of my favourite subjects at school but my interest has certainly be piqued over here. The museum was very well laid out and very informative. From glass bottles, pottery, gems, funerary outfits, some Egyptian finds, mosaics, small bronze statues to larger statues, funerary steles and cult inspired pieces, this museum has so many items of interest. I think the most fascinating of all to me was the skeleton of a man buried with his horse and learning of the importance of this. It was very interesting.

Of course one of my favourite areas was the courtyard featuring the contemporary sculpture art. I was missing Swell at home and this was a great replacement. The contrast from the historical items inside to the modern outside was a great juxtaposition.Read more