MuMa “Museum of the Sea” Milazzo: science, art, and environmental awareness

In the heart of the enchanting Castle of Milazzo, in Sicily, lies a place that transcends the traditional concept of a museum: the MuMa – Museum of the Sea of Milazzo. Inaugurated in 2019, this museum is not merely a guardian of maritime history, but a spiritual and emotional journey that invites visitors to rediscover the lost harmony between humankind and the sea — through a unique fusion of science and art.

The creation of the MuMa is deeply rooted in a moving and tragic story — that of Siso the sperm whale. In the summer of 2017, a young sperm whale about ten meters long became fatally entangled in an illegal fishing net off the Aeolian Islands and later washed ashore on the coast of Capo Milazzo. His death, worsened by the ingestion of plastic, became a powerful symbol of the devastating impact of marine pollution.

Thanks to the commitment of Carmelo Isgrò, the museum’s founder and director, and with the support of the University of Messina and the Siso Project, the whale’s massive skeleton was recovered and carefully reconstructed. Today, it stands as the museum’s centerpiece — suspended in the evocative Bastione di Santa Maria, an ancient church later converted into a military bastion. Around Siso’s bones are displayed the illegal net that trapped him and the plastic waste found in his stomach — a haunting reminder of humanity’s destructive influence on the marine ecosystem.

Education and Environmental Protection: The Mission of MuMa

The MuMa is not confined to telling stories of the past; it looks resolutely to the future, serving as a center for education and environmental awareness. Its primary goal is to engage and educate — especially younger generations — about the urgent need to protect and preserve the sea.

Through immersive exhibits, the museum explores crucial issues such as plastic pollution, illegal fishing, and the importance of a sustainable approach to marine resources. The MuMa’s scientific and educational value has been officially recognized: it is part of Italy’s National Museum System (MiC) and collaborates with prestigious institutions such as UNESCO-IOC and the Prada Group, underscoring its international relevance and mission.

The “Cassiopea Project”: A Sailing Vessel for Ocean Awareness

The MuMa’s commitment extends beyond its walls. Among its most inspiring initiatives is the “Cassiopea Project”, which involves restoring an old laminated wooden sailing boat — the Cassiopea — and transforming it into an eco-sustainable oceanographic vessel. This zero-impact ship will sail the Mediterranean, spreading the principles of Ocean Literacy, promoting marine sustainability through educational encounters in schools, yacht clubs, and ports. It’s a tangible way to bring the MuMa’s message directly to communities — with Siso’s story as a guiding light.

An Immersive Experience within the Castle of Milazzo

The museum visit is included in the Castle of Milazzo ticket, and audio guides are available to enhance the experience. The MuMa is a place where tragedy transforms into hope, where science meets art to deliver a message of change, and where every visitor is invited to reflect on their own role in protecting our fragile blue planet.

Address: Castello di Milazzo, 98057 Milazzo (ME), Italy

Opening Hours: Hours may vary seasonally; visitors are strongly advised to check the official website or MuMa’s social media pages for the latest updates, as they can change depending on events or holidays.

Tickets: Entry to the MuMa is generally included in the Castle of Milazzo ticket.

 • Approximate cost: Full ticket €8–10. Discounts available for children, students, and groups.

Contacts: [email protected]

Cover photo credits: Official Website of the Italian Ministry of Culture – Photo by Giuseppe La Spada