Do you know the ideal place to discover the life and art of one of Italy’s greatest playwrights?
If you are passionate about theatre, culture and history, the Museo Casa di Carlo Goldoni in Venice is a must-see.
In this post, I take you inside a fascinating place of masks, stages and manuscripts.
GOLDONI’S HOUSE
Located in a typical 15th-century Venetian residence, the Museo Casa di Carlo Goldoni is dedicated to the life and works of the famous playwright Carlo Goldoni, the master of the comedy of manners.
Here you can explore documents, period objects and stage sets that tell the cultural context of Venice between the 17th and 18th centuries.
A museum in the heart of Venice
The Museo Casa di Carlo Goldoni is located in the heart of the San Polo district, along a picturesque Venetian canal.
The house, known for its courtyard with an external spiral staircase, is a perfect example of late Gothic Venetian architecture.
The interior design of the museum is designed to offer the visitor an immersive experience.
The rooms are decorated with period furniture and objects that belonged to the Goldoni family, providing a glimpse into the daily life of the famous author. The museum tour includes explanatory panels and multimedia installations that guide the visitor through the history of Venetian theatre.
Carlo Goldoni: life and works
The museum is entirely dedicated to Carlo Goldoni, one of the greatest reformers of Italian comedy.
Born in 1707, Goldoni revolutionised theatre by introducing realistic characters and everyday situations, as opposed to the clichés of the Commedia dell’Arte.
Among the most important documents on display in the museum, you will find original manuscripts, personal letters and theatre contracts that recount Goldoni’s career. There are also references to his relations with the great Venetian families, such as the Vendramins, who played a fundamental role in his rise.
The Museo Casa di Carlo Goldoni also offers a section dedicated to the costumes and traditional masks of the Commedia dell’Arte, including Pantalone, Harlequin and Colombina.
Period stage sets and models of 18th-century theatres allow you to understand how comedies of the time were performed.
Another part of the collection focuses on the history of Venetian theatres, with a special focus on the Teatro San Luca (now Teatro Goldoni), where many of Goldoni’s plays were first performed.
Digital reproductions and three-dimensional models will make you feel as if you were backstage at an 18th-century theatre.
Events and Educational Activities
The museum is not only an exhibition venue, but also an active cultural centre. Events, children’s workshops and educational activities are organised to bring even the youngest visitors closer to the theatre.
Among the most popular initiatives are thematic guided tours, which offer an in-depth reading of Goldoni’s life and his historical context.
Useful information for the visit
The Museo Casa di Carlo Goldoni is open all year round and can be easily reached on foot or by Venetian public transport. For those who wish to visit it in more detail, audio guides in various languages and guided tours are available on reservation.
For timetables, tickets and reservations, visit the official website: carlogoldoni.visitmuve.it.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover Carlo Goldoni’s cultural legacy and immerse yourself in the magic of Venetian theatre. Every corner of the museum tells a story just waiting to be heard.