Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

As remarkable as its eccentric socialite founder, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is a lavish reconstruction of a 15th century Venetian palace, including an exquisite interior courtyard. Conceived by Gardner and her husband to house the growing collection amassed during their extensive travels, the museum opened in 1903. Every item in the 2,500-piece collection, spanning European, Asian and Islamic art from classical times to the turn of the 20th century, is meticulously placed according to Gardner’s personal instructions. A new wing, designed by museum maestro Renzo Piano, houses gallery space for special exhibitions and other facilities.