Attraction Guide: Etruscan Academy Museum, Cortona, Italy

Etruscan Academy Museum Guide

MAEC: Unveiling Cortona's Etruscan and Roman Past Guide

The Etruscan Academy Museum (MAEC) in Cortona is a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the story of this ancient city and its surrounding region. Housed in the Palazzo Casali, a beautiful Renaissance palace, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of Etruscan, Roman, and medieval finds, providing a fascinating insight into the area's rich history. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, MAEC offers a captivating journey through time. The museum's collection spans centuries, with a particular focus on the Etruscan civilization that flourished in Cortona before the Roman conquest. The Etruscans left behind a rich cultural legacy, and MAEC houses a remarkable array of their artifacts, including bronze sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and funerary objects. Highlights include the Tabula Cortonensis, a bronze tablet inscribed with a lengthy Etruscan text, and a stunning collection of Etruscan bronzes. The museum also features Roman artifacts, medieval paintings, and a collection of Egyptian antiquities. Visitors to MAEC can explore the museum's various rooms, each dedicated to a specific period or theme. Admire the intricate details of the Etruscan bronzes, decipher the mysteries of the Tabula Cortonensis, and learn about the daily life of the Etruscans and Romans. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs. While the museum itself doesn't have a culinary focus, Cortona is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine. Be sure to sample local specialties like Chianina beef, truffle dishes, and handmade pasta at one of the town's many restaurants.