Museum of San Colombano - Tagliavini Collection
About This Museum
Tucked away on a quiet street in Bologna, this place is a complete surprise. You'd never guess that a deconsecrated church and monastery now holds one of the world's most exquisite collections of historical musical instruments. It feels less like a sterile museum and more like stepping into the private vault of a passionately obsessive collector. The way everything is displayed, with such care and artistry, makes the harpsichords and spinets look like they're just waiting for a musician to bring them back to life.
Collection Highlights
You can get incredibly close to harpsichords painted with elaborate scenes, delicate porcelain flutes, and mechanical pianos that look like something from a steampunk fantasy. The absolute showstopper is the 'Cristofori' piano—one of only three surviving examples built by the man who actually invented the instrument.
Visitor Information
It's on Via Parigi, easy to miss but so worth seeking out. The atmosphere inside is wonderfully hushed and intimate, perfect for getting lost in the details.
Architecture & Building
The building itself is a beautiful Baroque complex, all soaring arches and ancient stone, which makes the perfect dramatic setting for these musical treasures.
Contact & Location
Address: 5, Via Parigi, Marconi, Porto-Saragozza, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, 40121, Italia
Phone: +39 051 1993 6366
Website: Visit Website
