Visiting the Biblioteca del Museo Ornitologico e di Scienze Naturali in Ravenna, Italy: Tickets, Hours, and Tips
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: An Essential Guide to Museo NatuRa in Ravenna
Located in the picturesque landscape north of Ravenna, the Biblioteca del Museo Ornitologico e di Scienze Naturali “Alfredo Brandolini”—today known as Museo NatuRa—serves as a vital institution for the study and appreciation of natural history and ornithology in Emilia-Romagna. The museum not only preserves the region’s biodiversity and environmental heritage but also provides an engaging starting point for exploring the UNESCO-listed Po Delta Park. Whether you are a seasoned naturalist, a family with children, or a curious traveler, Museo NatuRa offers a rich blend of scientific collections, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. This guide will help you plan your visit, understand the museum’s significance, and make the most of your experience in Ravenna (NatuRa Ravenna – Storia del Museo; Museo NatuRa - Parco del Delta del Po).
Contents
- Overview and Historical Background
- Mission, Role, and Collections
- Visiting Hours, Ticket Information, and Accessibility
- Educational Programs, Guided Tours, and Outdoor Activities
- Nearby Historical Attractions
- Practical Tips for Visitors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Summary and Call to Action
- Sources
Overview and Historical Background
Museo NatuRa originated from the private ornithological collection of Alfredo Brandolini in the early 20th century. Established as a public institution in 1970, the museum was initially housed in the Loggetta Lombardesca before moving to the Palazzone di Sant’Alberto, a historic 16th-century building. The museum’s collections were expanded over the decades to include not only bird specimens but also insects, mammals, reptiles, shells, minerals, and a scientific library (NatuRa Ravenna – Il Museo; Wikipedia – Museo ravennate di scienze naturali Alfredo Brandolini).
Today, Museo NatuRa stands as the principal visitor center for the Parco del Delta del Po, offering both a window into the region’s natural history and a gateway to its wetlands and wildlife.
Mission, Role, and Collections
Mission and Role
Museo NatuRa’s mission centers on the conservation, study, and education relating to the Po Delta’s unique ecosystems. Its objectives include:
- Biodiversity Conservation: Documenting and preserving the flora and fauna of the delta, with a focus on migratory and resident bird species.
- Scientific Research: Supporting ecological research in collaboration with universities and conservation groups.
- Environmental Education: Delivering hands-on learning experiences through workshops, guided tours, and citizen science projects.
- Community Engagement: Serving as a hub for local engagement, volunteerism, and environmental stewardship (Museo NatuRa - Centro Visite).
Collections and Scientific Resources
- Ornithological Collections: Extensive bird specimens from the Romagna region and beyond, including rare and extinct species.
- Entomological and Invertebrate Collections: Butterflies, beetles, and other insects, many from local pinewoods.
- Mammals, Reptiles, and Shells: Native and exotic species, as well as a broad malacological collection.
- Specialized Resources: A scientific library with rare works, the ovoteca (bird egg collection), and a discoteca (audio archive of bird calls).
The museum’s emblem, the European robin (Erithacus rubecula rubecula), reflects its roots in Brandolini’s early ornithological pursuits (NatuRa Ravenna – Il Museo).
Visiting Hours, Ticket Information, and Accessibility
Opening Hours
Museo NatuRa is generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, with typical hours from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closing days include Mondays and select public holidays. Please note: Due to ongoing renovations, the museum is temporarily relocated to the Biblioteca “Olindo Guerrini” at Via Guerrini, 60, Sant’Alberto. Always check the official website before your visit for current schedules.
Tickets
- General Admission: Modest fees (usually €3 full price, €2 reduced). Children under 6 often enter free.
- Guided Tours and Activities: Some workshops and excursions require advance booking and additional fees, ranging from €6 to €30 depending on the activity.
- Purchase: Book tickets online or by contacting the museum directly (NatuRa Ravenna – Orari e Tariffe).
Accessibility
The museum and its temporary venue are fully accessible to visitors with disabilities. Facilities include ramps, accessible restrooms, and on-request assistance.
Educational Programs, Guided Tours, and Outdoor Activities
Museo NatuRa is renowned for its robust educational outreach, offering:
- Guided Tours: Expert-led tours of museum collections and the Po Delta’s diverse habitats.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions on bird identification, animal adaptations, and ecological research.
- Excursions: Outdoor experiences such as birdwatching walks, bicycle tours, and canoeing in the delta wetlands (Museo NatuRa – Didattica).
- School Programs: Tailored activities for primary and secondary students, including laboratory science and citizen science projects.
- Digital Learning: Remote video lessons for schools and individuals.
Advance booking is required for most guided activities. Programs are suitable for families, school groups, and adults.
Nearby Historical Attractions
Enhance your visit by exploring Ravenna’s celebrated historical sites, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage-listed:
- Basilica of San Vitale: Famous for its mosaics.
- Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: Renowned for early Christian art.
- Loggetta Lombardesca: The museum’s original home, now Ravenna’s art museum (MAR).
Combining natural and cultural exploration creates a well-rounded Ravenna experience (Turismo Ravenna – Museo NatuRa).
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Location: Temporarily at Biblioteca “Olindo Guerrini,” Via Guerrini, 60, Sant’Alberto.
- Getting There: Accessible by car, bus, or taxi from Ravenna. Parking and bike rentals are available.
- Amenities: Picnic areas, group spaces, and accessible facilities.
- Preparation: Wear suitable outdoor clothing, bring binoculars and cameras, and book tours in advance for a seamless experience.
- Stay Informed: Follow the museum’s social media and download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and event updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the current visiting hours?
A: Hours are generally Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, but always check the official website for the latest updates due to ongoing renovations.
Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets for admission and activities can be booked online or by contacting the museum.
Q: Is the museum accessible for those with disabilities?
A: Yes, both the museum and the temporary venue are fully accessible.
Q: Are guided tours and excursions available?
A: Yes, but advance booking is required.
Q: What else can I visit nearby?
A: Combine your visit with Ravenna’s historical sites like the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
Summary and Call to Action
Museo NatuRa (Biblioteca del Museo Ornitologico e di Scienze Naturali “Alfredo Brandolini”) exemplifies the rich intersection of science, culture, and environmental stewardship in Ravenna. With its comprehensive collections, dynamic educational programming, and integration into the Po Delta biosphere reserve, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Italy’s natural and cultural heritage. Even during temporary relocation, Museo NatuRa continues to offer engaging exhibitions, expert-led tours, and hands-on workshops for all ages.
Plan your visit today:
- Check Museo NatuRa’s official website for current hours and ticketing.
- Reserve guided tours or excursions in advance.
- Download the Audiala app and follow Museo NatuRa on social media for updates and exclusive content.
Combine your museum trip with a tour of Ravenna’s world-class historical sites and immerse yourself in the wonders of both nature and history.
