When we think of Rome, we immediately imagine ancient temples, Roman ruins, and baroque churches. But Rome is also a contemporary city - alive, constantly evolving, and ready to surprise us with modern corners full of energy and creativity. If you want to explore this side of Rome, you can’t miss a visit to the MAXXI - National Museum of 21st Century Arts.
Located in the Flaminio district, near the Tiber River, the MAXXI is an impressive building designed by architect Zaha Hadid, one of the most important figures in contemporary architecture.
What to expect inside…
Its futuristic structure, made of fluid lines, intersecting spaces, and suspended staircases, looks like a work of art in itself. Even from the outside, with its large concrete and glass surfaces and winding paths, the museum grabs your attention and invites you in.
The MAXXI is not just a museum, but a dynamic cultural center, with temporary exhibitions, workshops, talks, screenings, and educational activities. It’s a space that welcomes artists and visitors of all ages, offering an immersive experience in contemporary art and architecture. The museum is divided into two main areas: MAXXI Art and MAXXI Architecture. In the art section, you’ll find works by Italian and international artists, photographs, video installations, and sculptures that explore the themes and questions of contemporary society. Among the featured artists are Alighiero Boetti, Francesco Vezzoli, William Kentridge, and many others. The architecture section, on the other hand, hosts models, drawings, and projects that trace the evolution of modern architecture and the challenges of today’s cities.
Visiting the MAXXI can also be a great way to practice your Italian. You can read the captions and exhibition texts, listen to audio guides, and join guided tours in Italian to improve your language comprehension in a cultural context. Plus, you’ll learn many terms related to contemporary art and architecture, enriching your vocabulary in a fun and stimulating way.
After your visit
After your visit, we recommend stopping at the museum café, a bright and welcoming space where you can have a coffee or lunch while continuing to enjoy the creative atmosphere of the MAXXI. On sunny days, you can also sit outside, surrounded by the artistic installations in the courtyard.
If you love photography, the MAXXI offers endless opportunities: the building’s geometry, the light filtering through the windows, and the open spaces create interesting perspectives for capturing unique and original shots. It’s the perfect place to share your experience on social media with an artistic touch, showing a different side of Rome than what you see on postcards.
How to get there
To reach the MAXXI, you can take tram 2 and get off at the Apollodoro stop, or walk from the Prati district across the Ponte della Musica - another example of contemporary architecture in Rome.
The MAXXI is an invitation to look at Rome with new eyes, to discover that even a city with over two thousand years of history can be open to the future and to change. If you’re a student of Italian, these kinds of experiences will help you not only better understand Italian culture, but also feel part of the city and its ongoing transformation.
So, what are you waiting for? Next time you’re in the mood for something different in Rome, grab your notebook, your camera, and your curiosity: off to discover the MAXXI!
Want to learn Italian in Rome? Check out our school!
Scuola Leonardo da Vinci Rome
The Eternal City has known it all. Victory and defeat, joy and tragedy, glory and humility marked Rome’s history, culture and architecture. A magical place with vibrant, timeless lifestyle with countless secrets waiting to be discovered.
The Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is situated in the centre of Rome, in the pedestrian area, halfway from the astounding Piazza Navona, Castel S. Angelo and St. Peter Basilica. It is one of the largest schools in Rome.
We, from Leonardo da Vinci School have one mission – to introduce you to this exciting urban symphony. Every year thousand of students from more than 90 countries jump into this adventure hand in hand with us. Leonardo da Vinci School is not only leading language institute, but centre of Italian culture and lifestyle. We match our vast experience with our student’ eagerness to know and learn and together we make it happen.
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