A Museum Designed for Childhood
Inaugurated in 1998 as an experimental project, the museum has become a national reference point for museum education aimed at children. Since 2007, it has been permanently hosted in Santa Maria della Scala, where it also serves as the educational center of the complex, coordinating activities for schools and families.
The spaces are designed to be accessible and safe, with child-friendly paths, interactive installations, and environments that encourage freedom of movement and exploration.
Activities, Workshops, and Educational Paths
The activities are curated by museum educators specialized in an approach that integrates art, play, storytelling, sensory experimentation, and hands-on creativity. The workshops change periodically and follow themes related to the exhibitions at Santa Maria della Scala, the seasons, holidays, and projects dedicated to schools.
Proposals include painting workshops, sculpture, collage, and mixed techniques, sensory activities for children aged 3 to 6, narrative paths inspired by fairy tales and myths, photography workshops, and life drawing, play visits for families, and inclusive paths for children with special educational needs.
A Direct Encounter with Art
The permanent collection guides children through themes close to their world, such as portraiture, play, fairy tales, identity, emotions, and imagination. The artworks, from the Middle Ages to contemporary times, create a path designed to stimulate curiosity and participation. Some are displayed at child height, creating an immediate and close relationship with art. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists, often characterized by interactive and participatory installations. An experience for families and schools
The Children's Art Museum is an ideal stop for those seeking children's activities in Siena, especially on weekends, during school holidays, or on rainy days. The visit can be easily combined with other areas of Santa Maria della Scala, such as the Pellegrinaio, the Chapel of the Mantle, the Archaeological Museum, and temporary exhibitions.
The museum offers services designed for families, including elevators, rest areas, accessible restrooms, and a bookshop with materials for children. Reservations are recommended for workshops, especially on weekends and during peak times.
The Children's Art Museum represents an engaging, educational, and accessible cultural experience in the heart of Siena.
Credits:
- Luca Deravignone
