Museo della Ceramica della Tuscia

The Tuscia Ceramics Museum in Viterbo presents pottery made in the region from the late Middle Ages through the nineteenth century.

Why it matters

The museum documents local ceramic production through objects used in daily life, trade and medicine. Its collections connect the technical history of pottery with the workshops and markets of Tuscia.

What to notice

Medieval maiolica in manganese brown and copper green forms an important part of the collection. Renaissance displays include a Deruta plate bearing the arms of Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon. Apothecary wares include jars from a Viterbo pharmacy and from the Ospedale Grande degli Infermi, some bearing dates of 1602 and 1608. Other displays include love-themed ceramics and work associated with the Deruta, Montelupo and Viterbo traditions.

Context and history

The museum was established in 1996 by Fondazione Carivit and the Comune di Viterbo as a centre for the study of local history and ceramic production. Its collections are housed in Palazzo Brugiotti, a historic residence. The museum's objects document the development of maiolica and pottery in the Tuscia from the late Middle Ages to the nineteenth century.