Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome (MACRO)

The Basics

There are two MACRO spaces: the larger on Via Nizza is a former Peroni brewery surrounded by elegant 19th-century apartment buildings that was restored by French architect Odile Decq. The permanent collection here concentrates on modern art including sculpture, photography, and installations from 1960 to today. The art museum’s underground parking lot holds remains of an ancient Roman house discovered during renovation of the brewery. The second location, MACRO Testaccio—aka Il Mattatoio—is located in a retrofitted slaughterhouse and is an exhibition hall that opens only for temporary events. This space is a fascinating stop on any walking tour of the Testaccio neighborhood, once a working-class district and now one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Rome. MACRO’s artworks and both buildings are highlights of Rome’s contemporary art and architecture tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Both MACRO venues are a must-see for lovers of contemporary art and architecture.

• The main MACRO museum has both a restaurant and a café, in addition to a shop.

• Large bags and backpacks, umbrellas, and pointed or blunt instruments of any kind must be checked at the cloakroom.

• Photography is not allowed inside the museum.

• MACRO is completely accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The main MACRO venue is located on Via Nizza in Rome’s Salario-Nomentano neighborhood. Buses 38, 80,60, 62, 82, 89, and 90 all stop in the vicinity. The MACRO Testaccio exhibition hall is located on Piazza Orazio Giustiniani in the Testaccio neighborhood. Tram 3 and buses 719, 170, and 781 stop nearby.

When to Get There

Both MACRO locations are open year-round but closed on Mondays. They often host temporary events and exhibitions, so it’s a good idea to check the upcoming program to see what is scheduled.

MAXXI

Rome’s other contemporary and avant-garde art museum is MAXXI, in the residential Flaminio neighborhood near Ponte Milvio and Villa Borghese. The building, designed in 2010 by Zaha Hadid, is considered a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, and houses a permanent collection of art and photography as well as prestigious temporary exhibitions.

Ways to explore

Set aside at least an hour for visiting MACRO, depending on the exhibition on display. Allow an extra hour if you plan to grab a snack or lunch at the on-site restaurant or purchase an art book to read in one of the public study rooms. Since the museum is far off Rome’s usual tourist track, it is not typically included on standard guided tours of the city’s highlights. However, itineraries focused on Rome’s modern art and architecture scene may include a stop here; otherwise, opt for a private, customizable tour and request a visit to MACRO.

Accessibility

The museum is accessible to wheelchair users, and visitors with disabilities enter for free.

Age limits

None; children ages 6 and younger get free admission.

What to pack

Leave your suitcases in your hotel, as bulky objects (including umbrellas) must be checked in the cloakroom.

What to wear

Trendy glasses, severe bangs, artfully ripped T-shirt

Not allowed

Throwing out your ticket stub (you’ll need to keep it on you while visiting the galleries), pets

Amenities

Bookstore, public reading rooms

Address

MACRO is located in Rome’s off-the-tourist-track Salario neighborhood, roughly halfway between Villa Torlonia and Villa Borghese. You’ll find plenty of ways to reach the museum.

Driving

While it is possible to reach MACRO by car, it’s best not to drive yourself in Rome unless you’re experienced at navigating the city. A better option is to get a taxi or rideshare to drop you off.

Public transportation

Take Metro Line A to Repubblica or Line B to Policlinico. Both stations are about a 15–20 minute walk from MACRO. Otherwise, take bus lines 38, 60, 62, 82, 89, or 90 and disembark along Regina Margherita.

Best times to visit

Visit in early evening, then grab a pre-dinner cocktail (aperitivo) or dinner at one of the many restaurants nearby.

Best days to visit

Avoid Mondays, when the museum is closed. For fewer crowds, visit Tuesday through Friday. On Sunday afternoons, grab a late brunch at the restaurant terrace.

Best months to visit

MACRO makes for a great activity in rainy or cold weather. In general, aim for the spring and fall shoulder seasons when visiting Rome; early winter, just after Christmas and carnevale holidays, is another great option.

Special events

MACRO hosts lectures, interactive workshops, and musical performances year-round. Check the website for an up-to-date schedule of events.