Regional Museum of Natural Sciences, Turin: the director speaks

The Regional Museum of Natural Sciences in Turin is undergoing a development plan aimed at increasing publicly accessible areas and enhancing historically important scientific collections. In a recent interview, Director Eng. Marco Fino explains the current construction works, collection scope and public programs.

Spaces and layout

The museum complex covers about 22,000 m², of which roughly 10,000 m² are allocated for exhibitions. Around 2,000 m² are currently open to visitors, with further expansions underway.

• 2,000 m² of exhibition space soon to open;
• about 1,000 m² for reception areas and courtyards, including restoring the historic access from Via Giovanni Giolitti;
• a new site for two zoological storage facilities adding 1,000 m².

The visitor entrance is currently at Via Accademia Albertina 15, while the institutional entrance is planned to move to Via Giovanni Giolitti 36.

The collections

The museum conserves a significant scientific heritage: approximately 7 million specimens in storage. The entomological collection alone has about 4.5 million specimens, and other main sections hold around 500,000 specimens each. Many objects originate from 18th-century university collections and historic international expeditions.

Education and public engagement

Educational strategy focuses on making science accessible through varied offers:

• guided tours tailored to different age groups;
• hands-on laboratories to experience scientific methods;
• exhibits designed to combine scientific value with engaging aesthetics.

Research and partnerships

The museum works closely with the University of Turin, owner of numerous collections, and is negotiating a new agreement to strengthen scientific and educational collaboration. Additional partnerships involve local institutions and international research projects.

Outlook

With the progressive opening of new exhibition spaces and specialized storage, the museum aims to expand public access, support scientific research and broaden educational activities, reinforcing its role as a regional hub for natural sciences.

Location

Address: Via Accademia Albertina, 15, 10123 Turin (TO), Italy