Museo archeologico e d'arte della Maremma

The Museo archeologico e d'arte della Maremma is an archaeological and art museum in Grosseto, Tuscany, Italy. It preserves a rich archaeological collection spanning from the Paleolithic to the late Middle Ages, with a special focus on the Etruscan and Roman periods. It serves as a key center for the study and documentation of the archaeological history of the Maremma, particularly the ancient city of Rusellae. Founded in 1860 by canon Giovanni Chelli as part of the Chelliana Library, it became municipal property in 1865 and was established as an independent museum in 1955. In 1975, with the opening of its new display in the former courthouse on Piazza Baccarini. History The first museum in Grosseto was founded on 1 March 1860 by canon Giovanni Chelli , a progressive priest involved in the Tuscan Risorgimento . Chelli had been collecting books, artworks, and archaeological finds to establish a cultural center and promote literacy. His collection, initially housed in the bishop's palace , reflected the 19th-century antiquarian style, displaying a mix of rare and precious objects without strict scientific criteria. After attempts to gain official state recognition failed, Chelli donated his collection and library to the city in 1865, forming the Biblioteca Chelliana , which also.