The Cantonal Museum of Natural History (Museo cantonale di storia naturale) researches, documents, studies and disseminates knowledge related to the natural heritage of the Canton of Ticino. It manages a collection of more than half a million artifacts (minerals, rocks, fossils, animals, plants and fungi) and has a specialized library.

The permanent exhibition offers an overview of the different natural components of Ticino: large environmental reconstructions (dioramas) present the most significant animals and plants, while some sections are devoted to rocks, minerals and fossils, including the famous reptiles of Monte San Giorgio. There is also a large section devoted to fungi.

The museum also promotes temporary exhibitions, courses, lectures, publications and educational materials, and collaborates with other institutions in the creation of thematic tours and educational activities for children, schools and adults.

Opening days and hours

  • Tue-Sat 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Monday and public holidays closed

Free admission

The English version of this page was created with the aid of automatic translation tools and may contain errors and omissions.

The original version is the page in Italian.

Museums