The building that houses the Library is the house that the Spontini couple had built with the intention of making it their residence upon their return to Maiolati, which only happened in September 1850 and for a few months. The old rural building, purchased by the composer in 1842 from the Valchera family, was renovated in neoclassical style between 1843 and 1846 by the Jesi architect Ciriaco Santini who was in constant correspondence with the owners.
Gaspare Spontini spent the last months of his life here with his wife Maria Caterina Celeste Erard until his death on 24 January 1851. After that the building continued to host Celeste Erard’s stays in Maiolati after she returned to live in France and also became the headquarters of the Reggenza delle Opere Pie. Between 1920 and 1936, the house was used as a town hall and then as a primary school, treasury, pharmacy, public housing, grain store and warehouse.
It was only in 1951, on the centenary of his death, that the building was transformed into a museum and, on the proposal of the Ministry of Education, by Presidential Decree No. 1092 of 19 June 1951, it was declared a National Monument.
Today, the Gaspare Spontini Archive, Library and Museu is spread over three floors. It is not only a place where memorabilia are exhibited, but also an important centre for study and research, where sheet music, musical manuscripts, autographed letters and photos of modern opera productions are preserved. The Library is located on the ground floor where documents can be consulted by appointment and agreement with the conservatory.
Via Gaspare Spontini, 15 – 17 60030 Maiolati Spontini (AN)
BY CAR
From the A14 motorway, exit at Ancona Nord. Follow the signs for Jesi/Fabriano. From the SS76, coming from Fabriano or Jesi, take one of the following exits:
Castelbellino: then continue towards Maiolati Spontini
Moie: then continue towards Maiolati Spontini
Maiolati Spontini/Castelplanio: then continue towards the historic centre.
WHERE TO PARK
We recommend leaving your car in the free car park in front of the Town Hall, located in Largo Pastori, 1.
Alternatively, you can park in the free car parks in Piazza della Vittoria.
BY COACH
From the A14 motorway, exit at Ancona Nord. Follow the signs for Jesi/Fabriano. From the SS76, coming from Fabriano or Jesi, take one of the following exits:
Castelbellino: then continue towards Maiolati Spontini.
Maiolati Spontini/Castelplanio: then continue towards the historic centre.
Buses must stop at the free car park in front of the Town Hall, located in Largo Pastori, 1.
Last update: 05 Sep 2025