MAXXI National museum of 21st century art

Tucked away in the vibrant Flaminio district of Rome, just north of the historic center, the MAXXI National Museum of 21st Century Arts stands as a bold and beautiful contrast to the city’s ancient ruins and baroque masterpieces. As Italy’s very first national museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art and architecture, MAXXI is more than just a gallery—it’s a statement.

Designed by the late, great Zaha Hadid, the building itself is a masterpiece. With its flowing, futuristic lines, open spaces, and striking interplay of light and shadow, the structure draws visitors in long before they encounter any of the artwork. It’s no surprise that architecture lovers from all over the world put this on their must-see list.

Is MAXXI worth visiting? Absolutely. Whether you're captivated by cutting-edge design or curious about the future of art, MAXXI Rome is an essential destination.

What is the MAXXI Museum?

The MAXXI Museum—short for Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI Secolo (National Museum of 21st Century Arts)—is Italy’s groundbreaking cultural institution dedicated entirely to contemporary creativity. As its name suggests, MAXXI embraces the art, ideas, and architecture of the 21st century, offering a dynamic platform where innovation and imagination take center stage.

Officially opened in 2010, the MAXXI was created not just as a museum, but as a living cultural hub—a space designed to inspire dialogue between the present and the future. It is the first Italian institution to unite contemporary art and contemporary architecture under one roof, reflecting the increasingly fluid boundaries between disciplines in today’s creative world.

Within its sweeping concrete corridors and luminous galleries, visitors can explore rotating exhibitions by leading and emerging artists and architects from around the globe. From experimental installations and multimedia works to architectural models and urban design concepts, MAXXI serves as a mirror of our times, capturing the pulse of modern culture in all its forms.

In a city best known for its ancient landmarks and Renaissance treasures, MAXXI Rome is a cultural milestone—a symbol of Italy’s commitment to the present and future of artistic expression.

The Architecture of the MAXXI

What museum did Zaha Hadid design? Among her many visionary projects around the world, one of the most iconic is the MAXXI Museum in Rome which is widely considered one of her most celebrated and groundbreaking works.

From the very first conceptual sketches, Hadid envisioned MAXXI not as a static building, but as a dynamic, flowing space—a network of sinuous lines and interconnected paths. These early drawings, filled with sweeping curves and layered geometries, laid the foundation for what would become a truly fluid, non-linear museum layout.

Unlike traditional museums with rigid floorplans, MAXXI unfolds like a journey, offering open spaces and interweaving galleries that encourage free exploration rather than prescribed routes.

Architecturally, MAXXI stands out for its innovative use of materials. The structure is primarily composed of raw concrete, giving it a sculptural solidity, while glass and steel introduce transparency and lightness. Massive skylights and translucent surfaces bring natural light into the heart of the museum, constantly shifting the atmosphere within and allowing the building to change with the day.

How the MAXXI integrates with the surrounding building

One of the most striking features of the MAXXI Museum architecture is how it interacts with its surroundings. Located in Rome’s Flaminio district, the building doesn't dominate its urban context—it integrates with it. The raised walkways, wide piazzas, and open exterior spaces allow the museum to flow outward, connecting with the neighborhood and inviting visitors in.

A deeper MAXXI museum analysis reveals just how radical Hadid’s structural solutions were. She employed complex engineering to achieve the building’s seamless curves and cantilevered forms, resulting in an environment where movement is intuitive and art is discovered organically. The spatial rhythm is designed to enhance the visitor’s experience, guiding them effortlessly from one gallery to the next while allowing moments of pause, reflection, and visual surprise.

What to see in the MAXXI Museum Rome

A visit to MAXXI Rome isn’t just about walking through galleries—it’s about immersing yourself in the creative energy of our time. As Italy’s flagship institution for contemporary art and architecture, the museum offers a rich and ever-evolving collection of works that challenge, inspire, and engage.

Must-See Artworks and Installations

The MAXXI museum collection features key works by leading international and Italian contemporary artists. Among the highlights are powerful pieces by Anish Kapoor, Giuseppe Penone, Alighiero Boetti, and William Kentridge, whose installations blend visual storytelling with political commentary. These are not just static objects on display—they are immersive experiences that often spill out into the architecture, interacting with the building’s lines, light, and open spaces.

Rotating Exhibitions

One of the museum’s greatest strengths lies in its constantly rotating exhibitions, which bring in new perspectives and voices from across the globe. Whether it’s a retrospective on a 20th-century icon or a showcase of rising stars in digital art, you’ll always find something current, provocative, and deeply relevant.

These exhibitions often explore themes like climate change, urbanization, identity, and social justice—making MAXXI a place where art doesn’t just reflect the world, but responds to it.

The Architecture Collection: A Treasure for Design Enthusiasts

Beyond contemporary art, MAXXI is a treasure trove for architecture lovers, offering one of Italy’s most significant collections of architectural drawings, scale models, and multimedia projects. The museum’s architecture section includes visionary works by major figures like Pier Luigi Nervi, Carlo Scarpa, and Renzo Piano, as well as international contributions that reflect global trends in design and urban planning.

This area is particularly valuable for architecture students and professionals looking for inspiration or deeper insight. With detailed urban design projects, innovative building concepts, and curated exhibitions exploring the evolution of architectural thought, MAXXI serves as a living case study in contemporary architecture—not only through its exhibitions, but through the very building that contains them.

Is MAXXI Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—MAXXI is a must-see in Rome. While the Eternal City is known for ancient ruins and Renaissance art, MAXXI offers a bold, refreshing contrast: a space entirely dedicated to the art and architecture of today.

What sets MAXXI apart is not just its collection, but the experience itself. Unlike traditional museums, here you wander through fluid spaces, discover ever-changing exhibitions, and engage with cutting-edge creativity in all its forms.

MAXXI is surrounded by local cafés, leafy boulevards, and design boutiques, giving visitors a taste of modern Roman life beyond the tourist trail.

This is the perfect destination for:

Architecture students and design professionals
Contemporary art lovers
Travelers looking for a different side of Rome
Creative minds seeking inspiration

MAXXI isn’t just a museum—it’s a portal into the future of culture, all in the heart of one of the world’s most historic cities.

Free museums in Rome

What are the 8 free museums in Rome? While most of the city’s major cultural institutions charge an entrance fee, Rome is also home to several smaller museums that are always free to visit. Here’s a quick list of the most popular:

Villa di Massenzio – A fascinating archaeological complex along the Appian Way.
Museo di Scultura Antica Giovanni Barracco – A hidden gem showcasing ancient sculptures.
Museo delle Mura – Located inside the Aurelian Walls, offering views from Porta San Sebastiano.
Museo Carlo Bilotti – A modern art space in the heart of Villa Borghese.
Museo Napoleonico – Dedicated to the Bonaparte family’s time in Rome.
Museo Pietro Canonica – Once the studio-home of the sculptor, now a museum with his works.
Museum of the Roman Republic and Garibaldi Memorial – Focusing on Italy’s 19th-century unification.
Museo di Casal de’ Pazzi – A unique museum built around a prehistoric archaeological site.

Is MAXXI Free?

The MAXXI Museum is not permanently free, but it does offer free entry to its permanent collection (Gallery 4) on specific occasions. As of the latest updates:

Free entry on the first Sunday of each month
Free entry to the permanent collection from Tuesday to Friday during regular opening hours (special exhibitions still require a ticket)

It’s always a good idea to check the official MAXXI website before your visit for the most accurate and up-to-date info on ticket policies and free admission days.

Pro Tip:

Rome also offers free entry to many state-run museums and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of every month, including the Colosseum, Galleria Borghese (with reservation), and more. It's the perfect chance to explore the city’s cultural treasures—without spending a euro!

Visiting Information

Planning a visit to MAXXI Rome is simple—and definitely worth it. Whether you're squeezing it into a busy Roman itinerary or making it the highlight of your day, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Opening Hours

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with final admission at 6:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays, as well as on May 1st and December 25th. Weekday mornings are your best bet if you want to explore in peace—perfect for soaking up the art and the architecture without the crowds.

Ticket Prices

A standard ticket costs €15 at the door (or €14 if you book online in advance). Reduced tickets are available for students, young adults, and groups. Better still, entry to the permanent collection is completely free from Tuesday to Friday, and on the first Sunday of each month—a great opportunity if you're visiting Rome on a budget. Just remember that special exhibitions may still require a separate ticket.

How to Get There

You’ll find the MAXXI in the Flaminio district, a modern, artistic corner of the city just north of the historic center. The full address is:

Via Guido Reni, 4A – 00196 Rome

Getting there is easy with public transport:

Take Metro A to Flaminio, then hop on Tram 2 to the Apollodoro stop.
Several bus lines (53, 168, 280, 910) also stop nearby.
From the city center, it’s about a 20-minute ride.

Facilities at MAXXI

MAXXI is more than a museum—it’s a place to linger. Inside, you’ll find a stylish café and the Mediterraneo restaurant, serving a mix of Mediterranean dishes and sushi. There’s also a well-curated bookstore, full of contemporary art and architecture titles, perfect for a unique souvenir or some creative inspiration.

The museum is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and barrier-free entrances. Lockers and restrooms are available, and audioguides are offered in English and Italian—or you can scan QR codes around the museum for a free digital experience.

Best Time to Visit

If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, plan your visit for weekday mornings right at opening time. You’ll have the galleries—and the dramatic architecture—mostly to yourself, making it easier to take it all in without distractions.

Tips for Visiting the MAXXI Museum

To make the most of your time at the MAXXI Museum in Rome, here are a few insider tips that will help you plan a smooth, enjoyable visit.

Recommended Duration: Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours at MAXXI. This gives you plenty of time to explore both the permanent collection and any temporary exhibitions, admire the building’s extraordinary architecture, and enjoy a coffee or light lunch at the café. If you're especially into architecture or contemporary art, you may find yourself lingering even longer.

Photography Rules: Photography is allowed throughout most of the museum for personal use—so feel free to snap pictures of the art, the architecture, and your experience. Just remember: No flash, no tripods or selfie sticks and respect signage in areas where photography may be restricted (especially during certain temporary exhibits)

Buying Tickets Online: We highly recommend buying your ticket online in advance through the official MAXXI website. Not only will you save €1 on the ticket price, but you’ll also skip the line—a big bonus on weekends or during special exhibitions. It’s fast, easy, and ensures you won’t miss out if time is tight.

Nearby Attractions to Combine in a Day: The Flaminio district is full of cultural gems and green spaces, making it easy to turn your trip to MAXXI into a full-day adventure. Here are a few spots nearby worth visiting:

Auditorium Parco della Musica – A stunning music and cultural complex by Renzo Piano, just a short walk from MAXXI.
Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia – For lovers of ancient history, this beautiful Renaissance villa houses one of the world’s best Etruscan collections.
Ponte Milvio – A historic bridge and lively local hangout lined with cafés and restaurants.
Villa Borghese Park – A 15-minute tram or bus ride takes you to one of Rome’s most beloved green spaces, ideal for a relaxed stroll or a museum double-feature with the Galleria Borghese (reservation needed).

Discover Rome’s Street Art with Walks Inside Rome

Are you passionate about modern and contemporary art? After visiting the MAXXI Museum, why not take your exploration of Rome’s creative side a step further—with a guided Street Art Tour of Rome?

Offered by Walks Inside Rome, this immersive experience takes you beyond the museum walls and into the vibrant neighborhoods where urban art thrives. From massive murals by international street artists to hidden gems that reflect the city's social and cultural pulse, this tour is the perfect complement to MAXXI’s cutting-edge exhibitions.

Exploring Rome’s street art scene not only deepens your appreciation for the city’s modern artistic identity—it also reveals a raw, authentic side of Rome that most visitors miss. You’ll discover how contemporary creativity lives and breathes in the city’s walls, alleys, and urban spaces.

Whether you're an art lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply curious about Rome beyond the classics, this tour is a must.

ð Join the Street Art Tour of Rome with Walks Inside Rome and experience the Eternal City through a truly modern lens.