Museum of Geology "G. G. Gemmellaro"

★★★★★ 4.6/5 (6,720 reviews) Excellent

About This Museum

Tucked away on a bustling Palermo street, this museum holds the bones of Thea, the first-ever Neanderthal skeleton discovered in Italy. It’s a place where Sicily’s dramatic geological history, from volcanic eruptions to ancient seas, comes vividly to life. You'll wander through rooms filled with glittering minerals, towering elephant skeletons, and perfectly preserved fossils that tell a story millions of years in the making. It feels less like a formal institution and more like a treasure chest of the ancient world.

Collection Highlights

The star is undoubtedly Thea, the San Teodoro Neanderthal. Beyond her, you can't miss the staggering collection of Sicilian dwarf elephant skeletons and the walls shimmering with stunning mineral specimens like native sulfur and celestine.

Visitor Information

It's easy to find on Corso Tukory, right in the city center, and the surprisingly modest entrance fee makes it a perfect escape from the Palermo heat.

Architecture & Building

Housed in a grand, typical Palermitan university building with high ceilings and elegant, slightly worn floors that creak with character.

Contact & Location

Address: Museo di Geologia Gemmelaro, 131, Corso Tukory, Albergheria, I Circoscrizione, Palermo, Sicilia, 90133, Italia

Phone: +39 091 2386 4694

Website: Visit Website