Omero Museum: expanding accessibility — paintings made usable for blind visitors

Omero Museum: accessibility and tactile access to artworks

Located in the Mole Vanvitelliana in Ancona, the Omero Museum is strengthening its commitment to making art accessible to blind and visually impaired visitors. The museum is implementing concrete measures to remove barriers that are not only architectural but also perceptual and cultural.

Practical measures and ongoing projects

• Braille labels and captions: expanding tactile information to support independent consultation of the collections.
• Tactile versions of artworks: creating bas-relief reproductions of selected paintings in the gallery, including the Pala Gozzi by Titian, to allow visitors to perceive form through touch.
• Academic collaborations: partnerships with the Polytechnic University of the Marche to convert pictorial works into tactile supports and accessible reproductions.
• Exhibitions and multisensory initiatives: programming exhibitions designed for multisensory enjoyment, with tailored content and routes.
• Territorial projects: plans to make Falconara airport more accessible and to contribute to Ancona's bid for Italian Capital of Culture 2028.

Why tactile access matters

The physical form of artworks can be effectively understood by touch as well as by sight. While braille descriptions and audio guides are valuable, tactile access—through replicas or bas-reliefs—provides a more direct understanding of volume, relief and iconographic details.

What this means for visitors

• Greater autonomy for blind and visually impaired people through dedicated routes and materials.
• An inclusive cultural offer aimed at schools, associations and visitors with different sensory needs.
• The Omero Museum positioned as a reference point for best practices in museum accessibility.

Practical note: for details on exhibitions, tactile guided tours or braille materials, contact the Omero Museum directly or check the official website before your visit.