Museum of Natural History of the Academy of Physiocritics
Numerous animal species, prehistoric fossils, and fascinating curiosities:
The Natural History Museum of Siena offers visitors of all ages a fascinating and educational experience. The collections, divided into four main sections, are displayed in a 19th-century style and exude an authentic charm of days gone by. The museum is housed in a former convent and spans several floors. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. In the various rooms, you can admire, among other things:
The premises are housed in a former monastery and span several floors. The various areas include the following:
Taxidermied animals from various ecosystems, displayed according to historical scientific criteria
corals, starfish, sponges
Seashells and snail shells
Display cases with insects
Numerous fossils of land and aquatic animals
extensive collection of minerals and rocks
Anatomical specimens from the 18th century
Illustrations from *Anatomia universa* (anatomical text)
Terracotta mushroom models (19th century)
Modern and historical herbariums
The museum’s four disciplines—zoology, geology, paleontology, and mineralogy—are enhanced by additional exhibits that make the visit even more fascinating. In addition to historical curiosities, such as a pair of gloves made from rare sea silk (also known as byssus), the museum also houses archaeological artifacts of great value, including Etruscan urns.
Don’t miss a stop in the charming inner courtyard: here you’ll find the museum’s centerpiece, a massive 15-meter-long whale skeleton. It’s a truly breathtaking sight that perfectly concludes the exhibition, serving as a testament to the majesty of the natural world.