Galleria d'Arte Moderna - Ex Convento di Santa Chiara
About This Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Catania, the Galleria d'Arte Moderna is a true hidden gem. It's housed within the wonderfully preserved Ex Convento di Santa Chiara, where the quiet, cloistered halls create this incredibly serene atmosphere that just makes the art pop. You'll find a fascinating collection that really captures the spirit of Italian modernism, with bold sculptures and vibrant paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. Wandering through, you feel this beautiful dialogue between the sacred history of the space and the daring energy of modern art.
Collection Highlights
Look for Giuseppe Sciuti's grand historical canvases, full of drama and detail, and then be stopped in your tracks by a powerful bronze sculpture by Emilio Greco. The collection beautifully showcases the Sicilian transition from Romanticism into more contemporary movements.
Visitor Information
It's on Via Castello Ursino, just a short walk from the Ursino Castle itself—perfect for combining an ancient and modern art fix in one afternoon. It’s one of those places that feels like a local secret, so you can often enjoy the art without the crowds.
Architecture & Building
The building is a former Baroque convent, typical of this volcanic city, with a simple, solemn facade that gives way to a stunning internal courtyard and graceful arched walkways.
Contact & Location
Address: 26, Via Castello Ursino, Giudecca, Centro storico, Catania, Sicilia, 95121, Italia
Website: Visit Website