The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe (Historical Museum of the Airborne Troops) is located in Pisa, Italy, and is dedicated to the rich history of Italy’s paratrooper forces. Situated in the Caserma Gamerra, which is the headquarters of the Centro Addestramento Paracadutismo (Parachute Training Center), this museum preserves the legacy of the elite Italian airborne troops, known as the Folgore Brigade.
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Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe
Caserma Gamerra
Via di Gello, 138
56123 Pisa, PI
https://www.esercito.difesa.it/storia/musei/Museo-Storico-delle-Aviotruppe
museocapar@cepara.esercito.difesa.it
+39 335 188 7186
Tuesday – Saturday 09:30–12:30 & 14:00–17:00
Aircraft collection
| (MM80681)/EI-310 | Agusta Bell AB205A-1 |
Historical Background
The Folgore Brigade has been one of Italy’s most renowned airborne units since its inception during World War II. The unit gained international recognition for its heroic stand during the Second Battle of El Alamein in 1942, where Italian paratroopers showed extraordinary bravery against Allied forces. Since then, the Folgore Brigade has played a critical role in Italy’s military history, both in combat and in peacekeeping missions worldwide.
The museum was established to honor the paratroopers’ service, courage, and sacrifices over the decades. It serves as a repository of Italy’s airborne military heritage, providing insights into the evolution of the Italian paratrooper forces from their origins to the present day.
Features of the Museum
The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe offers a comprehensive collection of exhibits that highlight the history, achievements, and contributions of Italy’s airborne forces. Some of the key features include:
- Extensive Military Artifacts Collection:
- The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe showcases a variety of weapons, parachutes, uniforms, and other equipment used by Italian paratroopers throughout history.
- Personal items, medals, and memorabilia belonging to paratroopers who served in significant battles, including El Alamein, are on display.
- Detailed Historical Exhibits:
- The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe has a rich collection of documents, maps, and photographs that illustrate the training, missions, and operations of the Italian airborne troops.
- Displays cover the founding of the Folgore Brigade, their pivotal role in World War II, and their participation in various international peacekeeping missions.
- Interactive and Multimedia Displays:
- There are multimedia exhibits with videos showcasing paratrooper training, historical footage of significant battles, and interviews with veterans.
- Interactive displays help visitors understand the strategic importance of paratrooper missions and how these elite soldiers are trained.
- Outdoor Exhibits:
- The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe is part of the Caserma Gamerra military base, allowing visitors to see training grounds and modern paratrooper equipment up close.
- Occasionally, live demonstrations and commemorative events are held, especially during military anniversaries and special occasions.
Visitor Information
- Location: Caserma Gamerra, Pisa, Tuscany, Italy. The museum is situated near Pisa’s historical center, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.
- Operating Hours: It is typically open on select days or by appointment, especially due to its location within an active military base. It is recommended to contact the museum ahead of time for visitor access.
- Admission Fees: Admission is often free, but prior authorization may be required to enter the military base. Visitors should bring identification.
Significance of the Museum
The Museo Storico delle Aviotruppe not only celebrates the bravery of Italy’s airborne forces but also serves as an educational resource for understanding the role of paratroopers in modern warfare. By preserving historical artifacts and personal stories, the museum honors the sacrifices of those who served and educates the public about the strategic importance of airborne operations.
For history enthusiasts, military aficionados, or anyone interested in Italy’s military past, the museum provides a unique and immersive experience that highlights the valor and dedication of the Folgore Brigade and the evolution of paratrooper forces in Italy.