Gauguin: The Noa Noa Diary and Other Adventures
The Historic Museum of Infantry in Rome invites art lovers to discover Paul Gauguin's extraordinary universe through an immersive exhibition that reconstructs the celebrated French artist's exotic journeys, recounted in the pages of his 1893 diary. This fascinating exhibition runs from September 6, 2025, to January 25, 2026.
Journey Through Gauguin's Tahitian Adventures
The exhibition takes inspiration from the diary written by the French artist in 1893, following his first trip to Tahiti, enriched with splendid colored woodcuts that illustrate the texts. The diary tells of life in the Polynesian islands, myths and ancestral beliefs, symbolism and spirituality.
More than 160 works are displayed at the Historic Museum of Infantry of the Italian Army (San Giovanni in Laterano), in an exhibition entirely dedicated to the master of post-impressionism Paul Gauguin. Visitors can explore the artist's travels and reflections through over one hundred works, including drawings, lithographs, and diary pages that reveal his most intimate side.
Extraordinary Artworks and Discoveries
Among the exhibited works stands out an important monotype drawing, "Study of Arms, Hands and Feet," from a renowned collection of drawings that survived the fire of Gauguin's belongings ordered by the island's religious authorities. An entire section showcases sculptures created by the artist during that period.
The exhibition path continues with lithographs from "Avant et Après," considered Gauguin's spiritual testament. A fascinating element includes his personal notebook, where among sketches and studies of figures and animals, you'll find an account of paintings sold, exchanged, or donated, revealing the dense network of relationships and friendships that connected Gauguin to the protagonists of his time.
Exhibition Details and Visitor Information
Location and Hours
The exhibition takes place at the Historic Museum of Infantry, located at Piazza di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, 9, in Rome's San Giovanni in Laterano district.
Opening hours are Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and Saturday, Sunday, and holidays from 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
Ticket Prices
- Standard tickets: €15 (weekends and holidays), €13 (weekdays)
- Reduced tickets: €10 (available daily for people with disabilities and their companions, groups over 10 people with advance booking)
- Special reduced rates: €13 (weekends and holidays), €10 (weekdays) for youth up to 14, seniors over 65, university students with ID, military personnel, and journalists
- Open tickets: €17
- School groups: €5
- Free admission: children ages 0-5
- Booking fee: €1.50
Getting There
The Historic Museum of Infantry is easily accessible by public transportation. Take Metro Line A to San Giovanni station, or use various bus lines that serve the San Giovanni in Laterano area. The museum is located near the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme.
A Cultural Journey Through Art and History
This exhibition offers international visitors a unique opportunity to experience Gauguin's artistic evolution during his transformative period in Tahiti. The display reveals how the artist's encounter with Polynesian culture profoundly influenced his artistic vision and creative process.
The carefully curated selection of works provides insight into Gauguin's daily life, artistic techniques, and spiritual journey. Visitors can trace his artistic development from traditional European painting to the bold, colorful style that would define post-impressionism.
Practical Information for International Tourists
Tickets can be purchased online through TicketOne, the exhibition's official ticketing platform. Both standard and Open tickets are available for purchase.
For group bookings and special arrangements, contact the organizers at prenotazioni@navigaresrl.com or call +39 351 840 3634. The museum also offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into Gauguin's artistic journey and the historical context of his work.
The exhibition provides an immersive cultural experience perfect for art enthusiasts visiting Rome. Plan to spend approximately 1-2 hours exploring the complete collection to fully appreciate the breadth of Gauguin's artistic achievements during his Polynesian period.
Official exhibition information and additional details
*** Photo Credits: https://www.turismoroma.it/it/eventi/gauguin-il-diario-di-noa-noa-e-altre-avventure
