Museo Paleontologico Giulio Maini
Museum | Ovada | Piemonte | Italy
The Museo Paleontologico Giulio Maini in Ovada, Piedmont, is a significant natural history museum that presents an extensive collection of fossils and minerals. It is located in the former church of Sant'Antonio from the 14th century, which has had various functions over time, including as a hospital and later as a prison. Today, it houses the valuable collection of the museum.
Collection and Exhibitions
The museum offers a comprehensive insight into the prehistoric world and geological history of the region. The main attractions include:
Fossils: An impressive collection of fossils, including various species of marine organisms found in the Tertiary deposits of the Ligurian-Piedmontese Basin.
Minerals: Minerals from the area that reflect the geological diversity of the region.
Largest collection of crab fossils: The museum houses the largest collection of crab fossils in Europe, including the new species Calappilia mainii discovered by Giulio Maini.
Activities and Events
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum regularly organizes cultural events, workshops, and guided tours that provide visitors with the opportunity to delve deeper into the history and science of paleontology. These activities promote understanding of local geology and the importance of fossil research.
The Museo Paleontologico Giulio Maini thus makes a significant contribution to the preservation and transmission of the natural history heritage of Ovada and the surrounding region, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of prehistoric creatures.
