The collections of the University of Siena
Located at Via del Laterino 8, within the university buildings of the Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, the museum originates from the scientific collections developed by the University since the 1960s.
Gradually enriched, it now offers a complete exhibition path that guides visitors through minerals, rocks, and fossils from around the world, with particular attention to the geological history of Tuscany.
Artifacts and natural wonders
Among the most extraordinary pieces stands a huge barite crystal about half a meter long, considered one of the largest known specimens.
Samples of malachite from the former Congo catch the eye with their sinuous shapes and intense colors, while blocks of sulfur from the Sicilian mines tell the historical industrial activity of the island. A Miocene sandstone slab, from the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, shows traces of water movements from millions of years ago.
The section dedicated to asbestos displays natural and industrial samples, accompanied by images from an electron microscope, to understand the nature and impact of this material.
Exhibition path
The museum is organized into about twenty thematic showcases that follow the main geological eras and the processes that have shaped the planet. The setup is clear and accessible, suitable for a varied audience: from curious visitors to students, and even natural science enthusiasts. Each showcase tells a story, stimulating observation and wonder.
Experience and visit
Visiting the Earth Sciences Museum means combining university research and dissemination in an original and stimulating cultural experience. It is a perfect destination for families, school groups, and travelers who want to enrich their visit to Siena with a unique insight into the natural history of the territory and the planet.
