The Museum of Geography of the University of Padova has received the highest possible recognition in the ANVUR evaluation dedicated to the Third Mission: 38 points, Class A – Exceptional.
The case study “The First Museum of Geography in Italy” was assessed across four key dimensions, earning an outstanding rating in all of them. The museum was recognized as a place capable of generating a significant and lasting cultural, educational, and social impact, welcoming thousands of visitors every year, including schools and the general public, through a diverse offer that includes temporary exhibitions, teacher training programs, pathways for future educators, digital outreach materials, and an artist residency program.
Particularly praised was the museum’s ability to connect the university with the local community, collaborating with associations, businesses, and local tourism operators through hands-on experiences such as open science initiatives, geocaching, and excursions, as well as the participatory glaciological campaign on the Marmolada. The museum has thus become a genuine national reference point for promoting geographical culture, even contributing to the establishment of a new master’s degree program.
The evaluation, which focused on the 2020-2024 activity period, also highlighted the museum’s commitment to inclusivity, with projects inspired by universal design principles and collaborations with specific communities, including a guide developed together with people on the autism spectrum. Concrete results followed: over 80% of visitors expressed positive feedback in surveys, with a real impact on lifestyle habits in 30% of cases.
A milestone that rewards the daily work of the entire museum staff, capable of integrating scientific research, education, and outreach with dedication and strategic vision.