African Museum

The African Museum of Verona, located in the Veronetta district, represents a unique institution in the Italian museum landscape, dedicated to the culture, art, and history of African peoples. Founded in 1938 by the Comboni Missionaries, the museum was born from the vision of San Daniele Comboni and his successor, Bishop Francesco Sogaro, who wanted to create a place to enhance and make known African cultures through objects collected during missions. The mission of the Comboni Missionaries, initiated in the second half of the 19th century, aimed not only at religious conversion but also at the emancipation and improvement of the living conditions of African populations. The first objects collected by the missionaries were exhibited in the Mother House of the Institute, and in 1938, it was decided to establish a real museum to give a definitive arrangement to these collections. The African Museum is located in Vicolo Pozzo, in a building that houses a rich collection of artifacts of various kinds, including masks, statues, musical instruments, and everyday objects, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa. The visit to the museum begins with a section dedicated to African traditions and religious beliefs. Here you can admire ritual masks used during religious ceremonies, votive statues, and sacred objects that testify to the deep spirituality of African peoples. These artifacts are not only works of art but also represent tools of communication with the world of spirits and deities, revealing the complexity and richness of traditional African religions. Continuing the journey, visitors can explore the section dedicated to daily life and social traditions. Here you can find objects of common use, such as kitchen utensils, traditional clothing, jewelry, and musical instruments. Each object tells a story of daily life, social relationships, and adaptation to the natural environment. Particularly interesting is the collection of musical instruments, which includes drums, xylophones, and string instruments, used to accompany songs and dances during community festivals and celebrations. The museum also hosts a section dedicated to contemporary African art, with works by modern and contemporary artists who reinterpret artistic traditions in a modern key. This section highlights the vitality and creativity of contemporary African art, showing how African artists have been able to integrate external influences while maintaining a strong cultural identity. A particularly significant aspect of the African Museum is its educational commitment. The museum offers a wide range of educational activities aimed at schools and families, with the aim of promoting knowledge and understanding of African cultures. Workshops, guided tours, and educational programs help visitors discover the traditions, customs, and history of African peoples, contributing to overcoming stereotypes and prejudices and promoting intercultural dialogue.