Explora, Children's museum near Piazza del Popolo, Rome, Italy
Explora is a children's museum in the Prati neighborhood of Rome, organized around science, technology, and everyday life themes. The exhibits are fully hands-on and aimed at children up to about 12 years old.
The museum opened in the late 1990s and was one of the first of its kind in Italy designed specifically for children. It was created in response to a need for a place in Rome where children could learn by doing rather than by watching.
The museum occupies a former industrial building in the Prati neighborhood, repurposed for children. Some areas recreate everyday Italian spaces, such as kitchens and public transport interiors, where children can touch and interact with the objects around them.
Entry requires booking a fixed time slot in advance, as the number of visitors per session is limited. Booking early is advisable, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
The museum has an Archimedes screw and a hydraulic pump system where children move water through different channels using their hands. The setup teaches basic physical principles through play, without any need for explanation.
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