Collezione di Zoologia

About the museum

The Collezione di Zoologia is part of the Sistema Museale di Ateneo of the University of Bologna and, for its size and number of specimens, is one of the most important in Italy. It took shape from collections of the 19th and 20th centuries, to which hunting trophies, mainly African, were added.

The route presents some of the rarest and most fascinating specimens and two large dioramas reproducing Italian habitats: the Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo and the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso.

The site is in Via Selmi, in the university district. From 16 September 2026 the collection is undergoing extensive pest-control (disinfestation) and restoration work: some preparations may be missing from their usual location and some areas may not be accessible.

Highlights

• Specimens of rare species from the 19th- and 20th-century collections
• Hunting trophies, mainly African
• Diorama of the Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo
• Diorama of the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso
• Free admission

Permanent exhibition

• Collezione di Zoologia – Zoological collections from the 19th and 20th centuries, African trophies and the dioramas of the Abruzzo and Gran Paradiso national parks.

Founded

1950

Operated by

Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna (Sistema Museale di Ateneo)

Visitors per year

approx. 19,162

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Free admission, with online booking. Guided and educational visits on request for individuals, groups, schools, university student groups and summer camps.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The Sistema Museale di Ateneo took part in a project of the Comune di Bologna that mapped the accessibility of city museums; for some university collections there are detailed sheets on accessibility conditions for hearing and motor disabilities. Toilets and a lift are available.

Kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Baby changing facilities

Guided visits for adults and families and educational workshops for children. There is a UNICEF Baby Pit Stop for breastfeeding, with a changing table.

Getting there & parking

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit