Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa: A World of Wonders
Explore natural history in a stunning monastery: cetaceans, dinosaurs, and Italy's largest freshwater aquarium await near Pisa.
Housed in the stunning Carthusian Monastery of Calci, just a few kilometers from Pisa, the Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa is one of the oldest museums in the world. Founded in the late 16th century, it boasts an impressive collection of natural artifacts, from dinosaur skeletons to the largest freshwater aquarium in Italy.
A brief summary to Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa
- Via Roma, 79, La Pieve, Province of Pisa, 56011, IT
- +390502212970
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Plan for at least two hours to explore the museum's extensive collections fully.
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.
- Combine your visit with a walk around the charming village of Calci and the surrounding Monte Pisano.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Pisa, take the Autolinee Toscane bus line 120 towards Calci. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, with buses departing from Pisa Sesta Porta. Get off at the 'Calci Supermercato 1' stop, a short walk from the monastery and museum. A single ticket costs between €1-€3. Check the Autolinee Toscane website for the most up-to-date timetable.
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Walking
From the center of Calci, the Natural History Museum is easily accessible on foot. Follow Via Roma through the town; the museum is located at the end of the road in the Carthusian Monastery. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from most locations in the village center.
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Driving
From the A12 motorway (Genova-Livorno) take the Pisa Centro exit. From the FI-PI-LI highway, take the Cascina or Navacchio exit. Follow signs to Calci. Limited parking is available near the museum entrance, accessible via Via Roma. On weekends, consider using the municipal car park on Via Margherita Hack near the Coop or parking areas on Via Trieste and Via Firenze. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour.
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