The world’s largest permanent exhibition based on models of machines designed by Leonardo da Vinci. A place that inspires wonder and curiosity, a tribute to human genius, from Leonardo to the most modern discoveries.
National Museum of Science and Technology “Leonardo da Vinci”, the largest technical-scientific museum in Italy and one of the leading in Europe. Dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci, the Renaissance genius who perfectly embodies the connection between science, technology, and art.
It is housed in the ancient Olivetan Monasteries of San Vittore al Corpo, a monumental 16th-century complex located in the heart of Milan, a few steps from the park of the Basilicas of Sant’Ambrogio. The choice of location is no coincidence: it is said that Leonardo da Vinci had his vineyards on this very spot, donated to him by Ludovico il Moro.
Hall of the Last Supper
The hall, one of the few remaining examples of Lombard Baroque in Milan, was used as a refectory in the ancient Olivetan Monastery and is completely frescoed.
This immense museum is divided into several sections, with an average visit time of about 2-3 hours.
Collections and Main Sections
– Leonardo da Vinci Galleries
The heart of the museum with the world’s largest collection of models based on Leonardo’s designs, including Flying Machines, Scientific Instruments, and War Mechanisms.
A journey through his visionary ideas with working models of extraordinary machines, meticulously reconstructed from his original drawings (the “codices”).
– Transportation Sector
Steam Trains, Locomotives, Trams, historic Airplanes, and a Luna Rossa catamaran. One of the most spectacular areas, divided into:
Railway Pavilion
It displays vintage steam locomotives, such as the majestic “GR 552 036,” which take you back to the golden age of railways; the Royal Carriage of Savoy; and the first Italian electric train.
Air and Naval Pavilion
Here, you’ll be left speechless. You can admire: the Sailing ship “Ebe,” a Navy brigantine schooner, the bridge of the Transatlantic liner “Conte Biancamano,” the AC72 Luna Rossa catamaran, historic aircraft, such as the SIAI Marchetti S.79 “Sparviero” and the Macchi MC.205 “Veltro” fighter.
The “Enrico Toti” submarine (S 506)
The museum’s iconic attraction. It is not a reconstruction, but a real 46-meter Italian Navy submarine, decommissioned in 1997. You can visit its interior with a guided tour (additional tickets are available with reservation) to experience the thrill of being a sailor on a mission.
– Space
A section dedicated to space exploration, Satellites, Rockets, Spacesuits, and Astronomical Instruments
Vega Launcher, a launch vehicle developed by the European Space Agency (ESA). Approximately 30 meters tall, it is on display in the outdoor areas of the Museum.
– Energy and Industry
Regina Margherita thermoelectric power plant, the Edison dynamo, important examples of generators, turbines, and historic engine blocks from the industrial revolution.
– New Frontiers
Dedicated to the latest innovations, with sections on:
– Biotechnology
– Materials Science (with an entire wall of different materials to touch)
– Energy and Particle Physics
– Historic Cars
Including the 1903 Bianchi 8HP, the 1932 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Spider Zagato, and the 1955 Bisiluro DaMolNar, belonging to our collections, as well as the 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Berlinetta Touring
Other Activities
Tinkering Zone
(for curious children and adults). Hands-on workshops inspired by MIT: build, experiment, play with science.
i.lab Workshops
The museum isn’t just about “looking,” but above all about doing. It is famous for its interactive laboratories (i.lab) where visitors of all ages can experience firsthand:
– Chemistry: Creating plastics, extracting DNA.
– Robotics: Programming small robots.
– Soap Bubbles: Discovering the science behind a seemingly simple game.
– Leonardo: Building Leonardo-style machines with bricks.
– Space (with digital planetarium)
Playlab
A dedicated area for boys and girls aged 3 to 6 to experience the Museum in a new way. An invitation to play, invent, imagine, and tell stories.
Artistic installations, exploration, play, and construction activities
A space organized into five areas designed to encourage collaboration and sharing among all participants, including adults. Accessible to wheelchairs, strollers, and people with mobility disabilities.
Leonardo da Vinci
Via San Vittore 21
Milan
Lombardy – Italy
Website info (PlayLab)
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