Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo: A Journey Through Medical History
Explore centuries of medical history and Renaissance art at Pistoia's Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo, a former hospital with a rich heritage.
The Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo, situated in the historic heart of Pistoia, offers a glimpse into the history of medicine and healthcare. The museum is located within the former Spedale del Ceppo, a hospital founded in 1277 that served the community for over seven centuries. In 2013, the hospital's functions were moved to a new facility, and in 2017, the Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo opened to the public. The museum tour highlights the historical, architectural, and artistic aspects of the building. A key feature is the Della Robbia Frieze, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture in polychrome glazed terracotta. Created by Santi Buglioni between 1536 and 1528, the frieze depicts the Seven Works of Mercy, with a final scene added later by Filippo di Lorenzo Paladini. The museum also features an extensive collection of surgical instruments dating from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Other sections are dedicated to the former psychiatric hospital at the Sbertoli Villas and the Filippo Pacini Medical Academy. Visitors can also explore the 18th-century Anatomical Theater, located in the garden of the former hospital. This small theater provides insight into the medical-surgical school that was active in the 17th century.
Local tips
- Consider purchasing a cumulative ticket for access to multiple museums in Pistoia, including the Museo Civico d'arte antica and the Museo del Novecento e del Contemporaneo di Palazzo Fabroni.
- Check the museum's opening hours, as they vary between winter and summer.
- The ticket office closes 30 minutes before the museum's closing time.
A brief summary to Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo
- Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII, 14, Pistoia, Province of Pistoia, 51100, IT
- +390573371023
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-2 pm
- Thursday 10 am-2 pm
- Friday 10 am-2 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
The Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo is located in the city center on Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII. From Piazza del Duomo, walk northeast along Via Roma, then turn right onto Via Cavour. Continue onto Piazza Treviso, then turn left onto Corso Silvano Fedi. Turn right onto Via Abbi Pazienza, then continue onto Piazza Papa Giovanni XXIII. The museum will be on your left. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From Pistoia train station, take bus line 5 towards Istituto Raffaello. The bus ride takes approximately 3 minutes and costs €2. The museum is a short walk from the Istituto Raffaello bus stop.
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Driving
If driving, take the A11 highway and exit at Pistoia, following signs for 'Pistoia centro'. This will lead you to the ring road, where you can take the Viale Europa exit towards free parking lots outside the historic center. Parcheggio Cellini is closer, or you can use the shuttle service from Parcheggio Stadio for €1.20. Parking Area Ceppo, near the museum, charges €2 per day, Monday to Saturday, from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
