Welcome to SMA (Sistema Museale di Ateneo), the network of Museums and Collections of the University of Bologna!
Find out about SMA
SMA is a network of fifteen museums, collections and a digital museum belonging to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world. The University was founded in 1088. With almost one thousand years of history, it is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Its diverse collections were born as a result of teaching and scientific research activities carried out since its foundation. SMA is an independent, self-governing institution aimed at promoting the fundamental cultural value underpinning the University heritage. The museums and collections differ in size, content, and character. Most of them are in the city center of Bologna, while the two collections related to the department of Veterinary Medicine are located in Ozzano dell'Emilia, 20 km from Bologna. Have a look at their location on the map.
Come and visit us
Everyone is welcome to our museums and collections. The network serves both the University and the community by unlocking the academic collections for a broader audience.
Discover a collective memory
Explore our collection of images available online and visit our museums. Our impressive collections, which represent a rich cultural heritage both from the historic and the scientific point of view, are housed in the rooms belonging to SMA. There you will find invaluable cultural and scientific treasures which will tell you a story about human knowledge and discoveries and the approaches of different scientific disciplines. The chances are that you will learn something new about the history of science by moving from one museum to another as if browsing a book, page by page.
Check out our programs and activities
The museums of the University of Bologna are committed to preserving, restoring and cataloging their valuable cultural exhibits to facilitate research. The network also fulfils its social and educational function by organizing entertaining and informative activities for children. As part of their community outreach program, the museums organize temporary exhibitions, also in collaboration with other local institutions.
- Published Rights, Reproductions and Loans