Museo Nazionale della Montagna

Overview

The Museo Nazionale della Montagna sits atop Monte dei Cappuccini, combining exhibitions on Alpine exploration, mountaineering history, and mountain culture with one of Turin's best panoramic terraces. Managed by the Italian Alpine Club (CAI) since 1874, it is the world's oldest mountain museum.

Highlights

• Mountaineering history: Equipment, photographs, and accounts from historic first ascents of Monte Bianco, the Matterhorn, and K2.
• Photo archive: Over 100,000 photographs documenting the Alps from the mid-19th century onward.
• Terrace panorama: The museum terrace offers the same stunning Alpine views as Monte dei Cappuccini, plus exhibition context.

History

Founded in 1874 by the Club Alpino Italiano, it is one of the world's first museums devoted to mountains. The collection grew through donations from mountaineers and explorers. A 2005 renovation modernised the displays while maintaining the intimate, personal tone of the original collection.

Visitor Tips

• Combine with the viewpoint: Visit the museum and the Monte dei Cappuccini terrace in one trip.
• Climber's interest: Particularly rewarding for anyone interested in mountaineering or Alpine ecology.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.