The Archaeological Museum is housed in a former palace built by Giulio Parigi in 1620 for the Archduchess Maria Maddalena of Austria. Inside you will find notable pieces of Greek, Roman and Egyptian art, though the museum is better known for its collection of Etruscan art.

Head for the first floor to enjoy the beautiful set of funerary urns, a highlight of which include what is known as the "Montescudaio". This urn features a cover depicting the plump figure of the deceased sitting on a throne presiding over a banquet. This scene was often represented in Etruscan art, as the custom in the Orient and in Greece was to end funerals with sumptuous banquets. 

The museum also has a room dedicated to Etruscan bronzes, metal smelting being an art form they had learned from the Greeks and used principally for making receptacles. This room, then, houses a wide variety of kitchen utensils, statues and jewellery. Special mention should be made of the sculpture "Chimera", a masterpiece depicting a mythological creature that was part goat, snake and lion. This sculpture was unearthed in the town of Arezzo in 1554 and was subsequently restored by Benvenuto Cellini due to the poor condition in which it was found.

Visitors should not forget the collection of Egyptian art housed in the museum, an extensive collection of objects such as baskets, furniture and perfectly preserved hats. In the classical Greek section on the second floor visitors will find an extensive exhibition of ceramics, a highlight of which is what is known as the "François vase".

For visitors tired of the long lines and waiting for other museums in the city, don't worry, the Archaeological Museum can be explored at a leisurely pace and without the stress of crowds.