Background

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.

4.7

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

  • 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.
widget icon

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Unlock the Best of Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa

The Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa, nestled in the historic Carthusian Monastery of Calci, offers a captivating journey through the natural world. Founded in 1596, the museum's origins trace back to a 'Gallery' established by Grand Duke Ferdinand I of Tuscany, showcasing curiosities from the Medici collections. Today, it stands as one of the oldest and most significant natural history museums in Italy. The museum's extensive collections are spread across three floors, featuring exhibits of zoology, paleontology, and mineralogy. A highlight is the Gallery of Cetaceans, one of the most important in Europe, displaying a remarkable collection of whale skeletons. The Dinosaur Court and Gallery showcase impressive dinosaur skeletons, including a Carnotaurus sastrei and Amargasaurus cazaui. The museum also features the largest freshwater aquarium in Italy, housing diverse species from around the globe. Visitors can explore the museum's historical gallery, which recreates a 17th-century 'chamber of wonders,' and the Mammal Gallery, exhibiting around 300 specimens. The museum plays an active role in research and education, hosting cultural events and temporary exhibitions. Allow at least two hours to fully explore the permanent exhibitions and aquarium.

Popular Experiences near Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa

Popular Hotels near Natural History Museum of the University of Pisa

Select Currency