Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile — Attraction in Turin

From the moment we stepped into the National Automobile Museum in Torino, Italy, it felt like we were embarking on a high-speed journey through the annals of automotive history! With two eager young co-pilots and a seasoned navigator (their grandfather) in tow, our expedition through this treasure trove of vehicular wonders was nothing short of exhilarating.

The extensive collection had us zigzagging from the quaint charm of early horseless carriages to the sleek finesse of modern-day marvels, and even gave us a tantalizing glimpse into the future of transportation. Each exhibit was a new chapter in a story that spanned centuries, continents, and countless innovations.

For my sons, the museum was a playground of epic proportions. Their eyes sparkled with the same intensity as the polished chrome on a vintage Fiat, and their laughter echoed through the halls, creating a soundtrack that brought the static displays to life. They raced from one car to the next, their imaginations shifting gears faster than a Formula 1 driver on a straightaway.

And then there was their grandfather, a man whose love for cars is rivaled only by his love for his grandchildren. Watching him share stories, pointing out the nuances of engineering and design, and instilling in them an appreciation for the craftsmanship of yesteryear was a heartwarming sight. His enthusiasm was infectious, and it bridged the gap between generations, making history feel as immediate and exciting as the present.

What truly sets the National Automobile Museum apart is its ability to engage visitors of all ages, turning a simple outing into an educational adventure. We learned about the evolution of the automobile, not just as a means of transport, but as a catalyst for cultural and technological change.

In short, the museum is a must-visit for anyone with even a passing interest in cars. It's a place where the past, present, and future of the automobile converge, offering a rich, immersive experience that's as informative as it is fun. Whether you're a wide-eyed child, a nostalgic grandparent, or somewhere in between, this museum has something to spark your curiosity and fuel your imagination.

Highly recommended for families looking for an engaging, educational, and downright enjoyable day out. Five stars aren't enough to rate the fantastic journey we had at the National Automobile...

This was a side trip for me on our 3 week vacation to Italy. The wife and I hopped a train from Milan, then taxi back and forth to the museum. It was a full day trip. The museum was as billed, very large and impressive. They had a phone app that was supposed to narrate the walking tour, but it didn't work on my phone, it loaded but just hung it up. So, my wife and I walked through and read the descriptions at each vehicle. They had an extensive collection of some very early, pretty 1900 vehicles, and many of these manufacturers only made a handful of cars, so these are extremely rare. There were far more vehicles in the post 1900 vintage, of course. The vehicles were preserved, not overly restored, and many appeared to even still have original paint and interiors in some cases. I really liked being able to get very close to the vehicles, but I was a bit disappointed that the hoods were not open to see the engines. They don't have to be clean, but I really would like to see them. Some highlights for me was seeing an Alfa Romeo Disco Volante, a Mercedes 540k, and my favorite was a spectacular work of art Cisitalia 202, that was stunning. I had never seen the Alfa or Cisitalia except in photos. There were dozens of other notable vehicles but these were my favorites. The final surprise for me was at the end of the cars was a huge Arynton Senna display with cars, videos and memorabilia of his career. That was a moving experience as he was truly an awesome world champion driver. I also recommend the small coffee bar and restaurant as it was amazing and reasonable!! This is a once in a lifetime visit for me and I...

The MAUTO Museum (Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile) in Turin, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the automobile. Its philosophy emphasizes conservation over restoration, ensuring that the cars remain as authentic as possible.

Unlike many museums that restore vehicles to modern, overly polished standards, MAUTO maintains the original appearance of its cars. For example, the paintwork on the vehicles shines as it would have when they were first produced, avoiding the overly glossy finishes of contemporary restorations.

The museum's conservation efforts are meticulous, aiming to present the cars in their original, historically accurate condition. This approach allows visitors to experience the vehicles as they were in their time, providing a deeper appreciation of their historical and cultural significance.

MAUTO also highlights the importance of Turin in the history of the automobile, particularly its role in the development of coachbuilding. The museum celebrates the work of the Carrozzieri, the skilled artisans whose craftsmanship and creativity produced some of the most stunning automotive designs of the past century. These artisans, using both their hammers and pens, created vehicles that are not just modes of transportation but true works of art.

I encourage you to take your time exploring the museum, immersing yourself in a world where beauty and engineering intersect. MAUTO offers more than just a collection of cars; it presents the automobile as a cultural phenomenon, showcasing its impact on society and its evolution over time, past,...