Discover the wonders of the human body at MUSME, the Museo di Storia della Medicina (Museum of Medical History). Visitors of all ages can go on a journey through science and history, learning about medical innovations in Padova and beyond. The human body is explored in detail in this comprehensive museum, which traces a timeline of medicine’s most important discoveries.
Enter the first room to learn about the history of the Hospital of San Francesco. It operated between 1414 and 1798. Continue to the gallery dedicated to the University of Padua. The university provided the museum with an enormous collection of specimens. This gallery retells the history of the 16th-century Scientific Revolution. Learn about the birth of medical sciences and the beliefs of the time in the anatomical theater, which dates back to 1598.
On the museum’s upper level, tour four major galleries that deal with the biggest questions in medicine regarding anatomy, physiology, pathology and therapy. Use the museum’s interactive displays to learn about the human body and how it works. Stand in front of a mirror and see a representation of your own inner organs reflected back at you. Look under a microscope to see the pathogens that cause some of today’s major diseases. Examine the heart and lungs with a stethoscope and learn about medical terminology.
Peruse the museum’s digitized collection of historic volumes and discover the exhibits of specimens collected over the centuries. Anatomical diagrams are projected onto a 26-foot-long (8-meter) mannequin, allowing visitors to take a closer look at the human body’s skeleton and muscles, as well as the digestive, nervous, respiratory and circular systems. Make the most of the museum’s “virtual tutors,” which give in-depth explanations of the exhibits on display.
MUSME is located east of Padova’s historic center and is easily accessible by light rail. There is a fee to enter the museum, which offers several concessions. The museum is open daily, except Mondays.
