The Gallerie Estensi

The Gallerie Estensi bring together four major cultural sites in Modena and Sassuolo, telling the story, art and legacy of the House of Este, one of Italy’s most important dynasties.

Through paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, archaeological finds and historic interiors, visitors can explore the culture of the Este and Po Valley courts from the Middle Ages to the Unification of Italy, shaped by power, patronage and a deep passion for art.

The Gallerie Estensi museum complex includes:

• the Galleria Estense in Modena, home to important art collections featuring works by artists such as Bernini, Velázquez, Correggio, Guercino, El Greco, Guido Reni, Cosmè Tura, Dosso Dossi, Veronese and Tintoretto;
• the Biblioteca Estense Universitaria in Modena, which preserves precious manuscripts and masterpieces such as the celebrated Borso d’Este Bible;
• the Museo Lapidario Estense in Modena, with sculptures, inscriptions and archaeological evidence that also illustrate the history of ancient Roman Mutina;
• the Ducal Palace of Sassuolo, one of the most important Baroque residences of the Este family, renowned for its frescoed rooms and richly decorated interiors.

Four different yet closely connected sites offering a comprehensive overview of the political, artistic and cultural history of the Este States.

Check the practical information on this page to plan your visit to the Gallerie Estensi.

Galleria Estense

Ducal Palace of Sassuolo

Biblioteca Estense

Museo Lapidario Estense (Estense Lapidary Museum)

Virtual exhibitions

Enjoy Gallerie Estensi’s masterpieces from a distance

Visit the virtual exhibitions