Naples' National Archaeological Museum Reopens Egyptian Collection After Six Years

The Egyptian collection of the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) has reopened after being closed since 2010 due to unhealthy environmental conditions. The new installation, curated by Valeria Sampaolo in collaboration with the University of Naples "L'Orientale" and the Egyptian Museum of Turin, represents a comprehensive overhaul of the museum's approach. The collection, established in 1821 with acquisitions from the Borgia and Drosso-Picchianti funds, is the oldest in Italy and one of the most extensive globally, featuring unique items like crocodile mummy bandages. The redesign prioritizes thematic organization over strict collection integrity, using primary colors (blue, red, yellow) that reflect Egyptian symbolism and a Pop aesthetic. The museum also launched a didactic comic "Nico alla scoperta del Mann" by Blasco Pisapia and plans an upcoming exhibition titled "Egittomania" on Egypt's cultural influence. Director Paolo Giulierini emphasizes the museum's commitment to contemporary communication and research, with ongoing restoration projects promising further discoveries. A preview of the epigraphic section is set for spring 2017.