Situated in the summer residence of Paolina Bonaparte, the Civil Museums of Villa Paolina are home to the Alberto Carlo Blanc Civil Prehistoric and Archaeological Museum, opened in 1986, the Lorenzo Viano Picture Gallery and the Giovanni Ciuffreda Museum of Musical Instruments, opened together in 1994.
The picture gallery was founded in 1974 by the comune of Viareggio, and was only later moved to Villa Paolina in 1994. It is laid out in chronological order and features descriptive panels, images, prints and slides. It is spread out over 4 rooms and comprises of 64 pieces that are inherent examples of figurative contemporary art. The Museum of Musical Instruments occupies 6 rooms and exhibits around 400 instruments, including the Pochette, a tiny 17th century pocket violin; an 18th century Neapolitan mandolin; and a collection of instruments gathered from countries outside of Europe.

Musei Civici di Villa Paolina
Via Machiavelli, 2
Phone: 0584 961076
Timetable: saturday 16:00 - 19:00
Entrance:
- € 2,50

Photos © APT Versilia