Museum · Siracusa, Sicília
Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi
One of the largest archaeological museums in Europe, with pieces from prehistory to the Greek and Roman periods of eastern Sicily, including the Vênus Landolina.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi
The Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi is named after the archaeologist who, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, excavated much of eastern Sicily. The modern building stands in the park of Villa Landolina, a few minutes from the Neapolis.
The route begins in prehistory, with objects from the cultures that lived on the island before the Greeks, including finds from Pantalica. Then come the Greek colonies, such as Megara Hyblaea, Gela and Siracusa itself, with pottery, sculptures, terracottas and temple pieces.
One of the best-known works is the Vênus Landolina, a Roman marble statue of the goddess rising from the water, found in Siracusa in the 19th century. The museum also has a large collection of Greek coins from Siracusa, some bearing the head of the nymph Aretusa.
The collection is extensive and the visit takes time. Some sections may be closed at certain times; check before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the early afternoon, after visiting the Neapolis, when the heat outside is stronger. Confirm opening times and which sections are open before you go.
How to get there
On the Viale Teocrito, about a 15-minute walk from the Neapolis entrance and around a 30-minute walk from Ortigia. City buses stop nearby.
Tip
Start with the section that interests you most, because the museum is large. Look for the Vênus Landolina and the coins depicting the nymph Aretusa.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museo Archeologico Regionale Paolo Orsi
Who was Paolo Orsi?
An archaeologist who excavated much of eastern Sicily between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is named after him.
What is the most well-known piece?
The Vênus Landolina, a Roman marble statue discovered in Siracusa in the 19th century.
Can it be combined with the Neapolis?
Yes. The museum is about a 15-minute walk from the archaeological park.
How much time should you allow?
2 to 3 hours to see the main sections.
