The Chemistry Museum of “Sapienza – University of Rome” was established in 1986 and has been open to the public since 1992.
It houses scientific instruments, educational equipment, collections of chemical substances, and historical documents dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of these items once belonged to Stanislao Cannizzaro—founder of the Royal Institute of Chemistry—and his students. Among the most historically significant pieces are instruments used for elemental molecular analysis, ebullioscopes, cryoscopes, thermometers, colorimeters, spectroscopes, von Schroeder’s 19th-century educational charts, and devices used by Gian Alberto Blanc for his research on water radioactivity. The museum also preserves more modern instruments, which serve as valuable records of the evolution of instrumental analysis.
The Museum regularly hosts seminars on the History of Chemistry, thematic exhibitions, and creates multimedia tools. It also offers a hands-on chemistry experience for visitors. Its mission is to engage both the university’s academic community and the school system, promoting scientific culture—and chemistry in particular—through various initiatives, including the Italian national school-to-work transition program, now known as PCTO (Paths for Transversal Skills and Career Guidance).
The Chemistry Museum also participates in theNational Plan for Scientific Degrees (PLS)
Overview
The initiative began in 2004 under the name Scientific Degrees Project, with the goal of counteracting declining interest in science among young people, recognizing that the country’s development depends on strong scientific education.
Since 2010, the National Plan for Scientific Degrees (PLS) has taken over the project. It is promoted by the Ministries of University and Research and of Public Education, in partnership with Confindustria and the National Conference of Deans of Science and Technology Faculties. The PLS supports student career guidance and teacher training through a collaborative approach between universities and secondary schools.
At the Department of Chemistry at Sapienza, the Chemistry PLS includes a series of laboratories and initiatives aimed at sparking students’ interest in the sciences, strengthening their knowledge of core scientific subjects, and fostering stronger ties between universities and the business world to ease students’ entry into the job market.
Chemistry PLS Objectives
The main goal is to encourage critical thinking, offer new ways of interpreting observed phenomena, build hands-on laboratory skills, and introduce students to the scientific method. Activities are designed for both individual students and entire classes, offering tools to help guide their future choices while introducing them to the diverse career paths in chemistry. The program includes not only student workshops, but also training sessions for teachers.
For more information about the PLS, please contact the Director:
donato.monti@uniroma1.it