Museum of Biomedical Sciences, Chieti

Nestled in the heart of Chieti, Italy, the Museum of Biomedical Sciences (Museo di storia delle scienze biomediche) is a treasure trove of historical and scientific wonders. This museum, housed in the iconic Palazzo ex-OND in Piazza Trento e Trieste, offers visitors a unique journey through the evolution of biomedical sciences, human history, and the natural world.

The History of the Museum of Biomedical Sciences

The Museum of Biomedical Sciences has a rich history that dates back to its initial establishment in 1994 at the University of Gabriele d'Annunzio. Originally located in the Palazzo De Pasquale, the museum was relocated in 1998 to a more expansive space within the university's Madonna delle Piane campus. Eventually, it found its permanent home in the historic Palazzo ex-OND in Piazza Trento e Trieste, where it continues to thrive today.

The museum's founder and director, Professor Luigi Capasso, a distinguished anthropologist at the University of Gabriele d'Annunzio, has been instrumental in shaping its development and curating its extensive collections. Under his guidance, the museum has grown into a significant cultural and educational institution.

The Palazzo ex-OND

The museum's home, the Palazzo ex-OND, is a remarkable example of neoclassical umbertino architecture. Originally built in the 1930s as the Palazzo Opera Nazionale Dopolavoro Arnaldo Mussolini, the building has a storied past. Constructed atop 19th-century public baths, it served various purposes over the years, including as a cinema after World War II. However, it eventually fell into disrepair until its restoration in 1994, when it was repurposed to house the Museum of Biomedical Sciences.

The building's distinctive architectural features, such as its monumental double staircase and spiral staircases flanking the entrance, are a testament to the fascist architectural style of the era. These elements, along with the imposing fasces symbols, make the Palazzo ex-OND a significant historical landmark in Chieti.

The Museum's Exhibits

The Museum of Biomedical Sciences boasts a diverse range of exhibits that cater to both history enthusiasts and science aficionados. One of the museum's primary focuses is the History of Human Settlement in Abruzzo, which is divided into several fascinating subsections. Visitors can explore the region's prehistoric past, from the Paleolithic era to the age of metals, and learn about the indigenous Italic populations, the Romanization period, and medieval communities.

A particularly captivating section is Mummies: A Biological Archive, where visitors can marvel at five human mummies preserved in a controlled environment. The exhibit also includes two reproductions, one of which is a young mammoth calf from St. Petersburg. This section offers a unique glimpse into the ancient practice of mummification and the biological insights it provides.

The History of Diseases exhibit is another highlight, showcasing the evolution of medical knowledge and practices throughout the centuries. It covers topics such as pain therapy, trauma, parasites, the ravages of time, and the impact of evolution on human health. This section provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and advancements in the field of medicine.

The Evolution of Life

For those interested in the origins of life, the museum features an exhibit dedicated to the Origin and Evolution of Life. Here, visitors can explore the process of fossilization through various displays of fossils, including stromatolites dating back 1.7 billion years and a variety of ammonites. An informative eight-minute video further explains the early stages of life's evolution on Earth, making this exhibit both educational and engaging.

The Origins of Man section is equally intriguing, tracing the stages of human evolution from the ancient Aegyptopithecus, the oldest hominid on display, to various species of Australopithecus, Homo habilis, Homo erectus, Neanderthals, and Cro-Magnon humans. The exhibits feature casts of original fossils, providing visitors with a tangible connection to our distant ancestors.

Expanding Collections

Since its inception, the Museum of Biomedical Sciences has continually expanded its collections. Notable additions include the Giambattista Vico Collection, featuring taxidermied animals, minerals, rocks, and laboratory instruments, as well as the Gonzaga Collection, which includes herbariums, natural samples, and anatomical models. The San Pio X Collection, donated in 2013, boasts an impressive 6,275 pieces.

The museum also houses a private collection of medical artifacts from the early 20th century, donated by Helen and Paul Critchely, along with other donations from individuals such as Flavio Bacchia and Luigi Capasso. One particularly striking piece is a sculpture by Paolo Borghi, depicting a turtle carrying the city of Chieti on its shell, located at the museum's side entrance on Via IV Novembre.

In conclusion, the Museum of Biomedical Sciences in Chieti is a captivating destination that offers a rich tapestry of history, science, and culture. Whether you are a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around you, this museum provides an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of biomedical sciences and human history.