The Museo MARCA is an art gallery with an eclectic range of works and a collection of stylish books. While it displays pieces from ancient civilizations, the museum mainly focuses on works of art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Spend some time in this diverse gallery to foster an appreciation for Italian and international art from across the ages.
Make your way through the various rooms spread across the site’s three stories and pick out some of your favorite works. On the walls are pieces by such acclaimed artists as Enzo Cucchi, Salvator Rosa and Antonio di Saliba. On the first floor is a collection of about 120 paintings and sculptures. Peruse the pictorial and plastic projects that make up part of the permanent collection.
Upstairs, encounter the innovative pop art works of artist Mimmo Rotella. He was born in Catanzaro and became a master of décollage, the art of tearing away parts of images to create something new. He passed away in 2006. Branch off to the surrounding rooms for the temporary exhibits, which often use videos and photography. Browse tomes about art that stock the shelves of the bookshop.
The acronym of MARCA comes from the full name Museo delle Arti Catanzaro (Museum of the Arts of Catanzaro). The museum is in an old whitewashed building that formerly contained an institute for those with hearing and speech disabilities. Snap photos of the townscape from the terrace and wander through the spacious courtyard.
The site opens Tuesday through Sunday from morning to evening, with a closure for lunch. Purchase tickets to enter and get discounts for kids. Children under the age of 6 and disabled persons have free access. In summer, drive south for 20 minutes to the Scolacium Archaeological Park, where the museum organizes an annual contemporary sculpture project.
The Museo MARCA is a little northwest of the city center of Catanzaro. It is on the western flank of a set of schools and colleges. Make sure to visit nearby highlights, including the Corso Mazzini, and the Cavatore on Piazza Matteotti.
