Museo Diocesano, Parma
Museum | Parma | Emilia-Romagna | Italy
The Museo Diocesano di Parma is an important museum dedicated to the history of Christianity in the city. It is located in the Bishop's Palace on Piazza del Duomo and extends over a portion of the palace's underground. The museum was opened in March 2003 and presents a chronological exhibition tracing the spread of Christianity in Parma from Roman times to the Middle Ages.
Collections and exhibitions:
Early Christian artifacts: The museum houses a variety of early Christian objects, including coins, Roman stuccowork, and early medieval ceramics. A particular highlight is an early Christian mosaic discovered under Piazza Duomo in 1955 and now on display in the museum.
Sculptures by Benedetto Antelami: Outstanding exhibits include the original sculptures of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, as well as the statues of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba that once adorned the north façade of the Baptistery. These works are by the renowned sculptor Benedetto Antelami and are masterpieces of Romanesque art.
Capital sculptures from the early medieval cathedral: The museum showcases capitals that were part of the early medieval cathedral built after a devastating fire in the 10th century. These capitals offer insights into the architecture and craftsmanship of the time.
Special features:
Angiol D'Or: Another highlight is the statue of the "Angiol D'Or", originally located on the bell tower of the cathedral and now on display in the museum. The statue depicts the Archangel Raphael and is a significant symbol for the city of Parma.
The Museo Diocesano di Parma offers visitors a deep insight into the religious and artistic history of the city and is a valuable center for preserving Parma's cultural heritage.
