The University Museum of Chieti: a treasure of history, science, and art within reach

Located in the vibrant heart of the University “Gabriele d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, the University Museum (MUD’A) stands as a cultural center of immense value — a guardian of a rich and diverse heritage that spans natural history, archaeology, contemporary art, and the medical sciences. It is not merely a place of preservation but a lively hub of research, education, and outreach, open to the community and in constant dialogue with the Abruzzo region.

An Eclectic Collection: A Journey Through Knowledge

The origins of the MUD’A are relatively recent, yet its roots lie in the university’s historic teaching and research collections. Today, the museum is divided into several sections, each offering a fascinating glimpse into a distinct field of knowledge:

• Paleontology and Geology Section: a breathtaking journey through geological eras, featuring fossils that tell the story of life on Earth and geological samples illustrating the evolution of our planet, with a special focus on Abruzzo.
• Zoology Section: a rich display of animal species, with skeletons, taxidermied specimens, and preserved samples that document both local and exotic biodiversity — a unique opportunity to observe life’s diversity up close and understand the importance of its conservation.
• Comparative Anatomy Section: an educational pathway exploring the structural similarities and differences among animal species, offering insights into evolution and adaptation.
• Archaeological Section: the result of university excavations and research across Abruzzo, this section exhibits artifacts from Prehistory to the Roman era, shedding light on the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region.
• Historical-Scientific and Medical Collections: ancient instruments, didactic models, anatomical preparations, and vintage surgical tools illustrate the evolution of science and medicine, providing a privileged look at the discoveries and practices that shaped human progress.
• University Art Gallery (Pinacoteca d’Ateneo): a growing collection of contemporary artworks, the result of acquisitions and donations, that enriches the museum with a dialogue between science, history, and artistic expression.

Beyond Exhibition: Research, Education, and Outreach

The MUD’A is far more than a repository of objects — it is a living laboratory. Its collections are the subject of ongoing scientific research conducted by professors and students, contributing to the advancement of knowledge across disciplines. The museum also plays a key role in university education, offering students the opportunity to interact directly with the artifacts and deepen their understanding of their fields of study.

But the museum’s mission extends well beyond the academic sphere. Through temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, lectures, and cultural events, the MUD’A serves as a cultural beacon for the wider community — promoting scientific and historical literacy, inspiring curiosity, and encouraging engagement with both local and universal heritage.

A Future of Growth and Valorization

With its wealth of collections and multidisciplinary vocation, the University Museum of Chieti is a leading institution in the Italian museum landscape. Its continuous commitment to preservation, research, and enhancement makes it a dynamic and evolving space, ready to welcome visitors of all ages and offer meaningful, enriching experiences. It is a must-see destination for anyone wishing to explore the many facets of human knowledge, set within the vibrant atmosphere of a living academic institution.

Practical Information

Address: Via dei Vestini, 31 – 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH)

Opening Hours:

• Monday: closed
• Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM / 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM / 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: closed (open by reservation or for special events)

Tickets:

Admission to the University Museum of Chieti is generally free, especially for individual and educational visits. However, temporary exhibitions or special events may require a small fee.

Contacts:

• Phone: +39 0871 3555986 (Museum Office)

• Email: [email protected]

   

Cover photo credits: Ra Boe, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0