The Natural History Museum of the Academy of the Fisiocritici, also known as MUSNAF, is an integral part of the Academy. It is housed in the former convent of Santa Mustiola, a building that dates back to the 12th century and once belonged to the Camaldolese order. The museum has been located here since 1816, adding a layer of historical significance to its scientific collections.
The museum is organized into four main sections: geological, zoological, anatomical, and botanical. These sections, along with a series of smaller collections, offer a comprehensive overview of natural history. The collections are primarily displayed across two floors of the cloister galleries, which surround a courtyard featuring a well from the late 16th century.
The museum is actively modernizing its approach to exhibition and accessibility. It is in the process of digitizing its collections and has implemented new technologies to enhance the visitor experience. These include online catalogs, a dedicated app, a touch screen route, and digital frames in various rooms. These efforts aim to make the museum's collections more accessible and engaging for all types of visitors.
Nature & Natural History Science & Technology Animals Geology
APRIL – SEPTEMBER
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
OCTOBER – MARCH
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Piazzetta Silvio Gigli 2, Siena
No exhibitions in Natural History Museum of the Academy of the Fisiocritici have been found.
Natural History Museum of the Academy of the Fisiocritici has 1 rating.
The Natural History Museum of the Academy of the Fisiocritici in Siena, Italy, offers visitors an interesting look into natural history and science. Located in a historic building, the museum houses a diverse collection of specimens, including fossils, minerals, and animal skeletons. Many visitors appreciate the museum's old-world charm and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The exhibits are informative, though some find the labeling and explanations lacking in detail or only available in Italian. The museum's highlights include the whale skeleton and the extensive collection of taxidermy animals. While the displays may seem dated to some, others find this adds to the museum's character. The staff is generally described as friendly, though not always present throughout the museum. It's worth noting that the museum is relatively small and can be thoroughly explored in about an hour. Some visitors feel the entrance fee is a bit high for the size of the collection. Overall, the Natural History Museum of the Academy of the Fisiocritici provides an educational experience for those interested in natural history, though it may not cater to all modern museum-goers' expectations.
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