Museo Galileo Tour, the Science Trail in Florence

‘On the Science Trail in Florence, discovering the wondrous worlds of the Galileo Museum Tour’ 

Not only did the Renaissance provide key contributions to art and literature, but this period in history brought a deep desire to understand nature’s mechanisms and laws, which contributed greatly to the revolution of modern science as we know it.

Galileo Galilei is referred to as the father of modern science, renowned for his ground-breaking theories and controversial scientific discoveries. Galileo, with his innovative and curious mind, completely advanced science, which at the time was heavily focused on magic and alchemy. He created harmony between these principles and deep scientific observation and analysis of the surrounding world. This can be seen through his extensive use of telescopes or his adoption of the controversial theory of heliocentricity, all of which reflect his deep desire to understand the laws of the surrounding world and a search for truth while pushing the limits of science as it was previously understood and accepted.

After the death of Galileo, through the continuation of his methodologies there were further developments and scientific advances. This can be seen in the Accademia del Cimento, a ‘Scientific Academy of Experiment’ funded by the Medici family, where physicists followed the motto of ‘provando e riprovando’ (trying and retrying) derived from Galileo’s method and teachings. Galilei’s legacy remained in Florence throughout the age of the Enlightenment, with his discoveries and theories transmitted and further experimented amongst scientists, botanists and physicists.

One of the museum's highlights is the Galileo's Telescope exhibit, which features a selection of telescopes used by Galileo himself, as well as other important scientific instruments and artifacts from the 16th and 17th centuries. Other notable exhibits include the Medici Collections, which feature scientific instruments and tools collected by the Medici family, who were important patrons of science during the Renaissance period.

The Florence Science Museum collections also include a wide range of instruments, such as microscopes, globes, and other instruments used in various fields throughout time, and exhibitions on the history of discoveries and the development of modern scientific methods.

About the Science Trail and Museo Galileo Galilei Tour

The tour appeals to our different senses and aims to combine history and knowledge harmoniously with the experience offered. 

Suitable for all ages, it appeals to families and also individuals who are curious about the fascinating history of science in Florence. The tour touches on many various angles of the topic of science so there is something that can interest everyone in an engaging and inspiring way.

Come and experience an engaging guided tour that explores a scientific trail, starting from its alchemical roots down to its consolidated scientific advances and modern science.

What you’ll do

• Visit the History of Science Museum of Florence (‘Museo Galileo’) renowned for being the Uffizi of Science. Explore the fabulous Medici collection of astronomical instruments, including two of Galileo’s telescopes. 
• Proceed on for a walk to embrace the world class Florentine-bred protagonists of science through the exploration of renowned landmarks and sculptures in town that recall their undertakings. Then head on to admire the astronomical instruments made for the façade of the church of Santa Maria Novella.
• End with a visit to the perfumery ‘Officine Profumo Santa Maria Novella’ one of Europe’s oldest perfumeries, where we will learn about its fascinating history, alchemic recipes and historic fragrances.