The Rome IndexMAXXI — National Museum of 21st Century Arts
Rome's contemporary art museum, inside one of Zaha Hadid's most celebrated buildings.
The building
Zaha Hadid won the commission in 1998 and the museum opened in 2010 — a fluid concrete structure of ramps, cantilevers and overlapping levels that is worth experiencing as architecture even if contemporary art isn't a priority.
The collection
Rotating exhibitions cover art, architecture, photography and fashion from the late 20th century onward, with Italian and international names. The permanent collection includes works by Cy Twombly, who lived and worked in Rome for decades.
Practical notes
Located in the Flaminio district, a short tram ride from Piazza del Popolo. Considerably less crowded than any other major museum in the city — a useful option for a rainy afternoon.