Marta Archaeological Museum Taranto Tour: Very Impressive Great Gold Artifacts

The Marta Archaeological Museum in Taranto offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the ancient world. Among the museum’s most captivating treasures are its exceptional collection of gold artifacts, which showcase the technical mastery and artistic sophistication of the region’s elite in the 4th-2nd centuries BC. Intricate designs adorn rings, earrings, and bracelets, providing a tantalizing window into the luxurious lives of Taranto’s ancient inhabitants. While the gold collection is undoubtedly the star attraction, the museum’s broader exhibits on statuary, mosaics, tombs, and pottery provide a comprehensive understanding of the area’s rich cultural heritage. For those seeking to enjoy the grandeur of the past, the Marta Archaeological Museum Taranto tour promises an experience that is both visually stunning and historically enlightening.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Tours In Taranto.

Good To Know

• The Marta Archaeological Museum in Taranto boasts an exceptional collection of ancient Roman gold jewelry, including ornate rings, earrings, and bracelets.
• Guided tours offer an immersive experience, with licensed guides providing insights into the museum’s Greco-Roman statuary, mosaics, and preserved tombs.
• The "Gold of Taranto" jewelry collection showcases the technical mastery and artistic sophistication of ancient inhabitants, reflecting the luxurious lives of the elite.
• Visitors can explore the museum’s highlights, including ancient pottery and funerary artifacts, which provide a captivating window into Taranto’s storied history.
• The private tour, lasting two hours, allows for a personalized and in-depth exploration of the museum’s exceptional collection, praised by the majority of reviewers.

Overview of the Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Taranto, known as MARTA, houses one of Italy’s top collections of ancient art and artifacts.

Visitors can embark on a guided tour that focuses on the highlights of this impressive museum. The 2-hour tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the museum’s treasures at a relaxed pace.

While the admission ticket isn’t included, the tour is led by a licensed guide who brings the museum’s history and exhibits to life.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to discover the rich cultural heritage of Taranto, this tour offers a captivating journey through the museum’s remarkable collection.

Highlights of the Collection

Within the impressive collection of the Archaeological Museum of Taranto, visitors can discover a fascinating array of ancient art and artifacts that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights include a wealth of ancient statuary, intricate mosaics, and remarkably well-preserved tombs. The museum’s renowned collection of Greco-Roman pottery is a true marvel, while the famed "Gold of Taranto" jewelry – featuring exquisite rings, earrings, and bracelets – offers a glimpse into the opulence of ancient Tarentum.

These extraordinary pieces illustrate the technical mastery and artistic sophistication of the region’s past inhabitants, providing a captivating window into the storied history of this remarkable museum.

Ancient Statuary and Mosaics

Venturing deeper into the museum’s captivating collection, visitors are greeted by an impressive array of ancient statuary and intricate mosaics.

The museum’s prized sculptures, carved from marble and bronze, transport guests back in time, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of classical artists.

Nearby, the museum’s stunning mosaics, painstakingly assembled from millions of tiny tiles, depict vibrant scenes from Greek and Roman mythology.

These beautifully preserved artworks offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, captivating visitors with their timeless beauty and historical significance.

Tombs and Pottery Exhibits

Amidst the museum’s captivating collection, visitors are drawn to the evocative displays of ancient tombs and pottery.

The intricate funerary artifacts, including decorated urns and sarcophagi, provide a window into the burial practices of Taranto’s past. Delicate ceramic vessels, ranging from ornate vases to simple utilitarian pieces, showcase the region’s rich pottery traditions.

These well-preserved relics offer insights into the daily lives and rituals of the ancient inhabitants. Visitors can marvel at the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterize the tomb and pottery exhibits, further enhancing their appreciation for the museum’s exceptional holdings.

The Gold of Taranto Jewelry

Complementing the tomb and pottery exhibits, the museum’s collection of the famed "Gold of Taranto" jewelry captivates visitors. These ancient Greco-Roman adornments, dating back to the 4th-2nd centuries BC, showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the era.

Item	Description	Highlights
Rings	Ornate gold rings adorned with intricate designs	Mythological imagery, geometric patterns
Earrings	Lightweight, elegant gold earrings in various styles	Drop, hoop, and pendant designs
Bracelets	Delicate gold bracelets with filigree and granulation	Flexible, lightweight, and striking in appearance

The museum’s prized "Gold of Taranto" collection offers a glimpse into the luxurious lives of the region’s ancient elite, captivating visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Private Tour and Licensed Guide

The guided tour of the Archaeological Museum of Taranto offers visitors a private and insightful exploration of the museum’s remarkable collection.

With a licensed guide leading the way, guests embark on a 2-hour journey through the museum’s highlights. The private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed pace and personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.

Visitors will discover ancient statuary, mosaics, tombs, pottery, and the renowned Gold of Taranto jewelry collection.

The tour begins and ends at the meeting point, the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto-Marta, providing a convenient and seamless experience.

This comprehensive museum tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Taranto’s archaeological treasures.

Booking Details and Requirements

The Marta Archaeological Museum tour is priced at $279.85 per group, which can accommodate up to 15 people.

Booking the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.

The tour meets at the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto-Marta and ends back at the same location.

Attendees can expect a private, guided tour that provides a relaxed pace and an in-depth exploration of the museum’s impressive collection of ancient art and artifacts.

Visitor Feedback and Ratings

Visitors have left a strong overall impression of the Marta Archaeological Museum tour, with 32 reviews averaging a 4.5-star rating.

The majority of reviewers, 25 in total, awarded the full 5 stars, praising the knowledgeable guide Michele and the engaging presentation of Roman history.

Three reviews were 4-star, one was 3-star, and three were 1-star, though the reasons for the lower ratings weren’t specified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase the Museum Admission Ticket Separately?

Based on the overview, the admission ticket is not included in the price of the guided tour. Visitors can purchase the museum admission ticket separately to access the museum’s collection before or after the guided tour.

Is There an Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

The tour does not provide an audio guide. However, the licensed guide will provide a personalized, engaging presentation on the museum’s highlights. Visitors can fully enjoy the ancient artifacts and history during the 2-hour private tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, the regular admission price of $279.85 per group (up to 15 people) may still be a reasonable option for those interested in the museum’s impressive collection.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though they may be restricted in certain areas of the museum to preserve the artifacts. It’s best to check with the tour guide upon arrival.

Is There a Dress Code for the Museum?

The museum doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing. Shorts, t-shirts, and casual attire are generally acceptable. Guests are advised to check the museum’s website for any specific dress requirements before their visit.

The Sum Up

The Marta Archaeological Museum Taranto Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the lavish lives of ancient Taranto’s elite. Visitors are enthralled by the museum’s exquisite collection of gold jewelry, showcasing the technical mastery and artistic sophistication of its creators. This curated tour not only highlights these stunning treasures but also provides a deeper understanding of Taranto’s rich cultural heritage.