Gipsoteca di Arte Antica dell'Università di Pisa
Museum | Pisa | Tuscany | Italy
The Gipsoteca di Arte Antica dell'Università di Pisa is a significant museum dedicated to ancient art, housing one of the first collections of plaster casts in Italy. The collection was founded in 1887 on the initiative of Gherardo Ghirardini and is located in the Romanesque church of San Paolo all'Orto, which is now used as a museum.
Collections and Exhibits:
Plaster casts of ancient sculptures: The Gipsoteca houses an extensive collection of plaster casts of significant ancient sculptures from Greek, Etruscan, and Roman times. These casts serve as valuable educational tools for students, providing a detailed insight into the art history of antiquity.
Antiquarium: In addition to the plaster casts, the Gipsoteca also includes the Antiquarium, a collection of approximately 1,500 original artifacts, including ceramics, vases, architectural terracottas, and metalwork. These exhibits represent various periods and cultures of antiquity and complement the plaster casts with authentic originals.
Paleontological collections: Another component of the Gipsoteca is the paleontological collections, which include fossils and prehistoric artifacts. These collections offer insights into Earth's history and the evolution of life on the planet.
Special Features:
Historical significance: The Gipsoteca is one of the oldest of its kind in Italy and was originally founded to provide a practical learning resource for students at the University of Pisa. Today, it serves as both an educational center and a cultural institution for the public.
Events and Activities: The Gipsoteca regularly organizes events such as conferences, seminars, concerts, and book presentations. These activities promote dialogue between science, art, and the wider public, making the Gipsoteca a vibrant center for cultural events.
The Gipsoteca di Arte Antica dell'Università di Pisa is thus a valuable center for the preservation and dissemination of ancient heritage, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the art and culture of antiquity.
