La Specola: Florence's Window to Natural History

La Specola, officially the Museo di Storia Naturale di Firenze, Sezione di Zoologia "La Specola," offers a captivating journey through the natural world and the history of science. Established in 1775 by Grand Duke Peter Leopold of Tuscany, it was one of the first scientific museums open to the public. The name "La Specola" refers to the astronomical observatory added in 1790, solidifying its role as a center for scientific observation. The museum's collections have roots in the Medici family's private natural history cabinets. Today, the museum is home to over 5,000 stuffed animals, showcasing the diversity of the animal kingdom. Highlights include extinct species like the Tasmanian Tiger and a Moa egg. However, La Specola is most famous for its collection of over 1,400 anatomical wax models, created between 1775 and 1814. These incredibly detailed sculptures were commissioned to assist in teaching human anatomy and represent a fusion of art and science. The collection includes works by renowned wax artists such as Francesco Calenzuoli and Clemente Susini, whose "Spellato" (the skinned one) is a masterpiece of anatomical art. Visitors can also explore the Hall of Skeletons, featuring a collection of osteological specimens, and the Galileo Tribune, a neoclassical structure built in 1841 to honor the Tuscan scientist. The Astronomical Tower offers panoramic views of Florence, providing a fitting conclusion to a visit to this unique museum.