The National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria, one of Italy’s most important museums of ancient history, offers a fascinating journey into the heart of Magna Graecia. Designed by renowned Italian architect Marcello Piacentini, the museum stands as a cultural landmark in the historic center of Reggio Calabria. It houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts that chronicle the Greek presence in southern Italy, with a particular focus on the region of Calabria.

The museum is best known for the Riace Bronzes—two magnificent life-sized Greek statues dating back to the 5th century BCE. Discovered in the sea near Riace in 1972, these statues are celebrated worldwide for their realism, intricate detail, and historical significance. They are displayed in a specially designed, climate-controlled room that enhances their dramatic impact and preserves them for future generations.

In addition to the Riace Bronzes, the museum features a wide array of archaeological treasures, including ceramics, tools, jewelry, and funerary objects from ancient necropolises. The lapidary collection showcases Greek and Roman inscriptions and stone artifacts, providing valuable insight into the lives and beliefs of past civilizations.

Following an extensive renovation completed in 2016, the museum now boasts a bright, modern interior, highlighted by a glass-roofed atrium that floods the central space with natural light. The redesign introduced state-of-the-art facilities and interactive displays that enhance the visitor experience, making the museum both educational and engaging.

Today, the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria serves not only as a guardian of ancient history but also as a vibrant cultural hub. It attracts scholars, tourists, and history enthusiasts from around the world, offering a unique and immersive exploration of Calabria’s rich archaeological heritage and its deep connections to the classical world.