This museum contains a comprehensive collection of finds from the Paestum area. It really captures the essence of the place and it should not be missed.The collection is divided into 3 parts. The Neolithic and Iron Age which has very interesting finds with excellent English explanations as well as interesting videos showing the life and crafts of these era. This small gallery is very well laid and informative compared to other museums with similar collections.The second part related to the Greek heritage of the city is the most extensive and unique. The tomb paintings are rare and extremely beautiful especially the enigmatic tomb of the diver. There are also many video screens showing aspects of life and art in ancient Paestum.The third part is related to the colony under Roman rule, a bit hard to find as it is on the second floor and the staircase is just near the main entrance. This gallery has some interesting statues and funerary objects from the roman period.The Audio guide for the museum is quite interesting and is recommended. It also covers the archaeological area although not as thorough as the museum.
We really enjoyed this museum , it tells the story from Pre Neolithic times through all the different phases. The finds are well presented and the descriptions comprehensive and in English. It is well worth taking your time browsing all the exhibits. Once you are on the site it all clicks into place.
I saved this museum for the afternoon when I knew it would be raining. The fascist architectural building was designed in 1938 but built in 1954. I personally loved all the slabs or frescos that portrayed ancient life in Paestum. I also appreciated the English descriptions throughout. The fresco "Tomb of the Diver" is the museums's treasure dating from 480 B.C. - don't miss it. Another highlight is the WW II 10-min. continuous film footage showing allied soldiers first glimpse of the ruins of Paestum and their camps surrounding them.
You must go and see Paestum.We took the train from Salerno (2.80 euro/pers/go) and in 30 min we were there. From the train station you have just 10-15min maximum to walk to Paestum (10 euro the ticket/ pers -> museum + archaeological site). The museum is very important to be seen, but after the site.I must say that I liked Paestum more than Pompey.
we contemplated not doing the museum but were glad we did. It's quite big but we chose an audio guide which is for the ruins also and this was great.There is a variety of stuff on display with something to suit everyone.
The museum has far more to it than it might seem to from the outside. It very easily takes you from pre-history through to its Graeco-Romano period, and a little of its story during WWII, but there is a lot of it, and if you are especially interested, will likely take you far longer than you expect. It took us over 3 hours. This is important as there is no cafe inside the museum so make sure you get something to eat and drink beforehand.Unless you are Italian, or have some knowledge of Italian, Latin, and/or Graeco-Romano history and mythology, take a guided tour or a very good Italian phrasebook, as at the time of writing, the majority of displays and artefacts are labelled only in Italian.
Excellent addition to the site nearby, provides an insight to the people and the lives they led. Well laid and presented. Attendents answered questions well.
Museum well kept and full of history. Interesting story of the discovery of the Tomb of the Diver.We recommend that you enter with a guide.
The museum is dedicated to Paestum and its locality but has finds of international importance in its collection. Its small but presents itself really well with English translations for most items. The really special items were the painted tombs in such amazing condition, but the neolithic grave goods were also fascinating and some of them were discovered during the second world war, when the allies invaded Italy, and were excavated by the British Army's archaeological unit - a very unusual war story to learn about...
The museum offers everything that was ever found in the archaeological site of Paestum. The finds range from the stone-age to the Roman period. The ticket for the museum is not expensive. Especially if you consider what is there to see. Some artifacts are beautiful; especially jugs, other kitchenware etc. You should really take your time and explore the museum!