A museum that lives in the present
The MAXXI has no fixed collection to walk through like the classic museums: it thrives on exhibitions and an ongoing dialogue with the art and architecture of our time. Here's what to expect on your visit.
Zaha Hadid's building
The first thing to "see" at the MAXXI is the building itself. Designed by Zaha Hadid, it's a fluid, spectacular space: curving galleries that weave together, black suspended staircases hovering in the void, walls of exposed concrete, skylights that flood the rooms with light. Walking through it is a one-of-a-kind architectural experience. We've given it its own guide: the MAXXI and Zaha Hadid's architecture.
MAXXI Arte
The MAXXI Arte section gathers and presents works of contemporary art (from the late 20th century to today): installations, painting, sculpture, video and photography by Italian and international artists. The works rotate through the exhibitions, so what you see changes over time, which is the beauty of a living museum.
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MAXXI Architettura
The MAXXI is also Italy's first national museum dedicated to architecture. The MAXXI Architettura section preserves archives, drawings, models and projects by the great masters of the 20th century and beyond, charting the evolution of architecture and design. It's a must for enthusiasts and students in the field.
The temporary exhibitions
The beating heart of the MAXXI is its temporary exhibitions: major showcases of art, architecture, design, photography and visual culture, often with international appeal. Before your visit, it's worth checking the program on the official website to see what's on and plan your time.
The piazza and outdoor spaces
The exterior is part of the experience too: the MAXXI's vast piazza hosts installations, events and open-air works, and it's a lively public space with a café and bookshop. It's a place where contemporary art enters the daily life of the district.
How to plan your visit
In 1.5-2 hours you'll see the best of it:
- Zaha Hadid's building (galleries, staircases, light)
- The temporary exhibitions currently on
- MAXXI Arte and MAXXI Architettura
- The outdoor piazza and public spaces
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see at the MAXXI? Zaha Hadid's building (an attraction in its own right), the MAXXI Arte section (contemporary art), MAXXI Architettura (Italy's first national museum of architecture) and the temporary exhibitions, which change regularly.
Does the MAXXI have a fixed collection? The MAXXI lives mainly on temporary exhibitions and rotating displays: what you see varies over time. It's best to check the program before your visit.
What is MAXXI Architettura? Italy's first national museum dedicated to architecture, with archives, drawings and models by the masters of the 20th century and beyond.
Is it worth visiting just for the building? Yes: Zaha Hadid's building, with its fluid forms and suspended staircases, is one of the most important examples of contemporary architecture in Italy.
How much time do you need? About 1.5-2 hours, depending on the exhibitions on show.
Read also
- MAXXI: the complete guide
- MAXXI: tickets and opening hours
- How to get to the MAXXI
- The MAXXI and Zaha Hadid's architecture
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Article #400 · Category: Monuments · Updated: May 2026