Museo di Storia Naturale - La Specola
About
The Museo di Storia Naturale – La Specola is Florence’s premier natural‑history museum, housed in the stunning 17th‑century Palazzo Palazzo di Duomo. Visitors are greeted by a vast collection of taxidermied animals, skeletal displays, and exquisitely painted anatomical wax models that trace the evolution of scientific inquiry from the Medici era to the present day. Open from Tuesday to Sunday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, the museum offers both free admission for children under six, university and student groups, and a modest €10 adult entry fee. Guided tours are available in Italian and English, and there are special pathways for wheelchair users, ensuring accessibility for all. In addition to the core zoological wing, the Specola showcases its renowned Giardino dei Semplici—a botanical garden dating back to 1545—, the Mineralogia and Geologia & Paleontologia galleries, and a dedicated area for interactive science exhibits, making it a must‑visit destination for families, science enthusiasts, and history lovers alike.
Highlights
- Giardino dei Semplici
- Zoologia La Specola
- Museo di Geologia e Paleontologia
- Mineralogia e Litologia
- Interactive Science Corner
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Spring and Autumn offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds
Pros & Cons
What visitors love
- Extensive Collections
- Family‑Friendly Exhibits
- Rich Historical Context
Things to consider
- Peak‑Season Crowds
- Long Ticket Lines
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Tickets & pricing
Adult
€10.00
Reduced
€5.00