Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci

The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology is located in the very center of Milan, a few steps from the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio, and has been in operation since 1953. It is the largest museum in Italy in the field of science and technology, and one of the most important museums in Europe. This is because the institution preserves some of the greatest examples of how Italy developed from an engineering and industrial point of view.

History of creation

The construction of the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology dates back to the 1500s, and its original purpose was to house the monks of the Olivetan order. Since the 1950s, it has housed a gallery entirely dedicated to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), from which the museum takes its name: this gallery houses the drawings and models of the Tuscan genius's machines. In addition, since 1958, at the entrance to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology, the grandiose mechanisms of Queen Margaret have been installed, which were inaugurated in 1895 by Queen Margaret of Savoy. They were developed to generate electricity at the silk factory of Egidio and Pio Gavazzi in Desio, which operated until the early 1900s.

Technical collection

The central part of the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology housed most of the historical collections, as well as interactive works that over time were developed in certain areas. In this regard, pavilions have been created to create a so-called “transport collection”. Upstairs is a fascinating collection that traces the entire history of flight, from the pioneer era to jet aircraft. Inside there is also a memorable railway pavilion, built in 1967, which houses about twenty antique locomotives, railway cars and tools used during train operations.

The greatness of genius

The Da Vinci Gallery allows you to see Lombard Renaissance paintings and a realistic installation dedicated to Leonardo's drawings. More than 1,300 square meters and 170 historical models, works of art, antique volumes and installations are housed in the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology. The new galleries completely reimagine the historic layout with which the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology opened to the public in 1953, and represent a unique cultural resource designed to inspire new generations, a world of exploration and enthusiasts of all ages. The figure of Da Vinci is examined in its historical context, emphasis is placed on his curiosity and his ability to observe and interpret nature, together with attention to the work of his contemporaries, with whom he is in constant dialogue.