🇮🇹
Italy
Explora: The Children's Museum
Explora: The Children's Museum of Rome, also known as 'Il Museo dei Bambini di Roma', is an interactive, hands-on learning environment dedicated to children aged 0-12 years. Located in the heart of Rome, Italy, it is housed in a refurbished historic building that once served as the city's old tram depot.
The museum was founded in 2001 by Ilaria Borletti Buitoni, an Italian businesswoman and philanthropist. The museum is based on the model of the Boston Children's Museum, and its purpose is to stimulate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in children.
The exterior of the museum is a mix of old and new, with the original brickwork of the old tram depot juxtaposed against modern glass and steel additions. The entrance is marked by a playful, colorful sign that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Inside, the museum spans over 8,000 square meters and is divided into four main areas, each representing a different aspect of everyday life. These include a market area where children can learn about the importance of healthy eating, a construction site where they can understand the basics of building, a TV studio where they can explore media production, and a water area where they can learn about the water cycle.
The museum also takes pride in its 'green' status. It has a rooftop garden where children can learn about gardening and the importance of sustainability. It also uses solar panels to generate electricity and has a rainwater collection system.
One of the most impressive features of Explora is its 'Rotating Exhibition'. Every three months, the museum completely changes its exhibition to keep things fresh and exciting. This allows children to continually learn new things and explore different topics.
Over the years, Explora has become more than just a museum. It is a vibrant, dynamic space that encourages children to ask questions, think critically, and understand the world around them. It is a place where learning is fun, and where children are the protagonists, actively participating in their own development.
Interesting facts about Explora include that it was the first museum in Italy specifically designed for children, it receives over 200,000 visitors annually, and it runs workshops in English and Italian, making it accessible to local and international visitors.
In conclusion, Explora: The Children's Museum of Rome is a place where children can play, learn, and grow. It is a testament to Rome's commitment to education and the empowerment of the next generation.