Museum of Ancient Ships of Pisa
Thirty Roman vessels and their cargo, painstakingly excavated and restored over 18 years, tell the story of ancient maritime trade, daily life aboard ship, and the perils of the sea.
At a glance
Housed within the Medici Arsenals, this museum opened in December 2018 to present one of archaeology’s most significant maritime discoveries. The collection spans Roman commercial vessels, their amphorae, ceramics, glassware, metalwork, and on-board tools—a rare window into ancient Mediterranean seafaring.
History
Between 1998 and 2016, systematic excavation and restoration work uncovered the remains of thirty Roman ships. The discovery emerged from careful archaeological investigation and conservation labour spanning nearly two decades. In 2018, the museum formally opened to the public, making the findings accessible to scholars and visitors alike.
What you see
The museum is housed in the historic Medici Arsenals overlooking the Lungarno. Within this Renaissance-era complex, visitors encounter the substantial wooden remains of Roman vessels, alongside their diverse cargo: amphorae for transport of wine and oil, fine ceramics, glass vessels, tools used in maritime work, and personal objects that illuminate seafaring life. The displays reconstruct both the vessels themselves and the routes they travelled.
Cultural significance
The assemblage of thirty ships in situ is exceptional in Mediterranean archaeology. Together, the vessels and their contents form a tangible record of Roman trade networks, navigational practices, and the daily experience of sailors and merchants. The collection demonstrates both the sophistication of ancient seamanship and the human cost of maritime ventures through documented shipwrecks.
Key facts
- Address: Arsenali Medicei, Lungarno Ranieri Simonelli 16, 56126 Pisa
- Coordinates: 43.71467008363161, 10.39232611656189
- Opened: December 2018
- Excavation period: 1998–2016
- Collection: 30 Roman ships with cargo and maritime artifacts
- Website: https://www.navidipisa.it/
- Phone: 055 552 0407
Practical information
Opening hours and admission fees are best confirmed on the official website or by telephone. The museum is located within the Medici Arsenals, a historical complex open to visitors.
Getting there
The museum occupies the Medici Arsenals along the Lungarno Ranieri Simonelli in central Pisa, within walking distance of the Cathedral and the Leaning Tower. Public transport connects to the city centre; consult local transit maps for current routes and schedules.
Sources & resources
- Official website: https://www.navidipisa.it/
- Cultural Heritage Online: https://culturalheritageonline.com
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