This is one of the best diocesan museums in Italy. Extremely well laid out, showcasing some outstanding works of religious art. The staff are extremely polite and helpful. Visitors to the duomo must purchase a ticket for the museum in order to walk behind the high altar. This is perfectly reasonable, though it is not terribly clear that this is the practice at the duomo and museum. A poster or sign in translation explaining that would be helpful. On the other hand, my wife and I were very impressed by the lady who directed us from the duomo to the museum. Her enthusiasm for the duomo, and especially for Our Lady’s girdle which is displayed in the museum, were infectious.

Wonderful little museum, full of the most amazing religious artefacts, of which by far the best are the decorative carved stone panels from the next door Duomo’s external pulpit, created by Donatello in the 15th century. These were replaced on the pulpit by 20th century copies and put in the museum to prevent any further damage by pollution. To be able to get up so close to these exquisite carvings is a fine arts lover’s dream. If you are in the Emilia Romagna region, you should come to Prato just to these. They are extraordinary.