The online petition urges the Municipality of Milan to recognize the public interest of the interactive museum dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci
A popular wave to save Leonardo3 Museum
More than 10,000 citizens and 116 motivated comments have signed a petition on Change.org to urge the Municipality of Milan to officially recognize the Leonardo3 Museum as a site of public interest. The primary request? To allow the museum to continue using its current space under a reduced cultural lease, just like the arrangement made for the Rizzoli bookstore.
A secondary demand involves preserving the iconic columns that mark the museum entrance, a symbolic element in the heart of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
A self-funded cultural jewel with global appeal
Since 2013, the Leonardo3 Museum has been captivating visitors with interactive exhibitions, 3D models of Leonardo’s machines, and digital restorations of his masterpieces. With over 2 million visitors to date—270,000 in 2024 alone—it stands as a rare example of a self-funded institution, not relying on public money but thriving on the scientific quality of its content.
It is scientifically guided by Martin Kemp, one of the world’s leading Leonardo da Vinci scholars, who publicly condemned the Municipality’s inaction. In 2013, the museum received the Presidential Medal of Honor and enjoyed continuous sponsorship from the City of Milan for ten years.
A strategic location and cultural value for the city
Just steps from Piazza della Scala, the museum is widely considered an integral part of the Milanese cultural experience. Families, schools, and tourists are drawn to its interactive exhibits, updated regularly thanks to an internal research center that has been active for over 20 years.
To lose this cultural hub would be a major blow to the city—not just in terms of tourism but also in terms of identity, education, and innovation.
A plea for transparency and civic responsibility
The petitioners are also asking for clarity about why the lease was revoked and why the museum is no longer allowed to place its external structures, which help make it visible inside the Galleria.
The final appeal, addressed to the City Council and the Mayor, is heartfelt and clear: don’t let Milan lose a unique institution that blends research, innovation, and accessibility in one of its most iconic locations.
FAQ
1. What is the Leonardo3 Museum?
It is an interactive museum in Milan entirely dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci, featuring 3D models and digital restorations.
2. Where is it located?
Inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the most iconic locations in Milan.
3. How long has the museum been open?
Since 2013, welcoming over 2 million visitors in total.
4. Is it publicly funded?
No, it is fully self-funded and does not receive public subsidies.
5. Why is it at risk of closing?
The City of Milan has revoked its lease and denied use of public space for the museum’s external structures.
6. What does the petition ask for?
Public interest recognition, reduced cultural leasing, and preservation of the museum’s entrance columns.
7. Who is Martin Kemp?
A top Leonardo da Vinci expert and scientific advisor to the museum.
8. What makes the museum special?
Its use of interactivity, scientific rigor, and in-house content production.
9. How can I support the museum?
By signing the petition on Change.org: https://chng.it/yFVBBVGvKC
10. What would Milan lose if it closed?
A cultural institution that connects science, history, and technology—beloved by locals and tourists alike.
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