M9 Museum of the Twentieth Century
A contemporary cultural institution housed in a 9,000-square-meter complex that transforms former military barracks into exhibition galleries, archives and public spaces for exploring modernity and twentieth-century history.
At a glance
M9 occupies a significant urban site in central Mestre, integrating historic buildings with new architecture. The museum presents permanent and rotating exhibitions, operates a media library-archive, and hosts educational programs and public events. It serves as a cultural anchor for the city and wider metropolitan region.
History
The Venice Foundation purchased the site in 2008, choosing it for comprehensive urban renewal. An international architectural competition determined the design, with entries from studios across Europe. The project transforms former Matter and Pascoli military barracks and the Volpato property—previously inaccessible to the public—into an integrated cultural destination.
What you see
The complex spans nine thousand square meters bounded by via Poerio, Brenta Vecchia and Pascoli. Contemporary architecture coexists with preserved historic structures, creating dialogue between old and new. The facility includes exhibition galleries, an auditorium, reading rooms, and landscaped public spaces designed for collective gathering and cultural exchange.
Cultural significance
M9 operates as a research and exhibition platform dedicated to understanding the twentieth century and contemporary life. Its mission centers on making history accessible, interpreting present conditions and fostering informed perspectives on the future. The museum addresses diverse audiences through varied programming and reflects on modernization’s impact across society.
Key facts
- Address: via Gino Allegri 29, 30174 Mestre
- Coordinates: 45.49174668938269, 12.240936756134033
- Phone: 041 3036311
- Website: https://m9digital.it/it/benvenuti-m9
- Winning architects: David Chipperfield Architects (Great Britain/Italy)
Practical information
The museum houses permanent exhibitions (Museo del Novecento), temporary shows, an auditorium and media library. Specific opening hours and admission fees are available on the official website.
Getting there
M9 is centrally located in Mestre, accessible via public transport and local roads. The site occupies former military properties at the intersection of via Poerio, Brenta Vecchia and Pascoli. Check the official website for current access information and parking details.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →Historical events at this place (6)
- 2018 L’idea di Europa nel ’900
- 2018 Uscire dalla guerra: il natale del 1918
- 2018 Tutto da rifare: il Natale del 1948
- 2019 GAMIFICATION: strumento di innovazione per fare business e molto altro giocando!
- 2021 Draw, Love, Build. L’architettura di Sauerbruch Hutton
- 2023 Nel tumulto - La nuova video installazione di Vitruvio Virtual Reality per: Rivoluzione Vedova - mostra di M9 Museo
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