A library specialised in archaeology, museum studies and art history, open to scholars, students and anyone curious to learn more
The Archaeology and Art History Library (BiASA - the Biblioteca di Archeologia e Storia dell’Arte) is a public institute dedicated to research and study, the most important library specialising in archaeology, architecture, art and art history managed by the Italian Ministry of Culture. Founded in 1874 as a collection of books used by the officials of the Directorate General of Antiquities and Fine Arts, BiASA has gradually opened up to a broader user base that now includes students, enthusiasts and anyone who is curious to learn more.
BiASA possesses sets of documents and images of remarkable importance, including the Rodolfo Lanciani archaeology archive, on loan from the National Institute of Archaeology and Art History. Professional researchers and scholars, both Italian and foreign, will find the books, journals and bibliographical references they need to complete their work and research. The highly-qualified staff that works in the reading rooms is available to help university students and all other users get started using the library.
Currently divided between Palazzo Venezia and the Roman College building (Palazzo del Collegio Romano), the library has been at the heart of a large international project for a few years now. The relaunch of the library will involve the transfer of its collections to Palazzo San Felice, at the foot of the Quirinal Hill, a building which is currently being restored by architect Mario Botta.
