Museo Fortuny occupies the Gothic Palazzo Pesaro degli Orfei in San Marco, Venice, where Mariano Fortuny lived and worked. The museum brings together his interests in textiles, fashion, painting, photography and theatre, with printing equipment, costumes, architectural models and works collected by Fortuny and his family. Look for the fabrics designed by Fortuny among the palace interiors, as well as paintings, tapestries and stage designs. The displays span several floors, with temporary exhibitions on the ground floor.
Fortuny’s home and studio
Museo Fortuny is housed in the Palazzo Pesaro degli Orfei, a Gothic palace in Venice’s San Marco district. Mariano Fortuny, the Spanish-born artist and designer, used the building as his home and workshop. The museum presents his work within that setting, connecting the objects on display with the many fields he pursued.
Fortuny’s interests ranged from painting and photography to textile printing and theatre design. Rather than focusing on one medium, the collection shows how these practices sat alongside one another in his working life. His family’s collection of artworks and travel objects adds another strand to the visit.
Textiles, costumes and working tools
Look for the fabrics and draped interiors designed by Fortuny, as well as clothing and costumes associated with his work. Printing machinery and workshop tools help explain the practical side of textile production. Paintings, photographs, prints and tapestries sit alongside these objects, giving the displays a broad scope.
The collection also includes theatre-related material, such as stage designs and models. Architectural models, sculptures and paintings extend the view beyond fashion and fabric. The palace’s interiors are part of the experience: its rooms contain original furnishings and artwork, with fabrics integrated into the setting.
How the visit is arranged
The museum displays its collections across the first and second floors, while the ground floor has a separate area for temporary exhibitions. Allow time to move between levels and look closely at the different kinds of work on show. There are several staircases, so the route involves climbing stairs.
A guide can help you make sense of the range of rooms and subjects. For a quieter visit, consider going on a weekday or early in the day. Admission is charged, and advance tickets are recommended. Check whether a Venice Museum Pass covers the museum before choosing how to book.
FAQ
Where is Museo Fortuny?
It is in Palazzo Pesaro degli Orfei, Campo San Beneto, in Venice’s San Marco district.
What can you see at Museo Fortuny?
The collection includes textiles, clothing, printing equipment, paintings, photographs, tapestries, costumes and theatre designs. The ground floor has a separate area for temporary exhibitions.
How long should you spend at Museo Fortuny?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the collection across its different levels.
Does Museo Fortuny have stairs?
Yes. The displays span multiple floors, and getting around involves climbing stairs.
