Dinosaurs in Flesh and Bone: Immersive Exhibit for Families | Rome
Rome’s Appia Joy Park Hosts Immersive Dinosaur Exhibition
A new exhibition, “Dinosauri in Carne e Ossa – LIFE,” has opened at the Appia Joy Park in Rome, offering visitors a journey through the history of life on Earth. The exhibit combines scientific accuracy with artistic reconstruction to present a compelling look at prehistoric creatures.
Located at Via Annia Regilla, 245, the exhibition spans 400 million years of evolutionary history, from the Paleozoic Era to the Ice Age. Visitors will encounter life-sized reconstructions of iconic dinosaurs and prehistoric animals, including the Diplodocus, Spinosaurus, Mammoth and saber-toothed tiger, alongside species that once inhabited Italy, such as Scipionyx (“Ciro”), the Tethyshadros (“Antonio”), and the titanosaur “Tito.”
The exhibit features thirty models, all meticulously crafted to be life-sized. These reconstructions are the result of collaboration between paleontologists and paleoartists, aiming to provide accurate depictions of anatomy, size, and other characteristics. The exhibit aims to demonstrate how scientists and artists work together to reconstruct the history of life based on fossil evidence.
Beyond the dinosaurs themselves, the exhibition delves into the process of prehistoric reconstruction. Illustrative panels, evocative settings, and detailed explanations reveal the steps involved – from scientific research and modeling to the final sculpting process. Visitors can explore the “behind-the-scenes” work of illustrators, sculptors, artisans, and experts in digital technologies who transform scientific data into realistic and engaging animal representations.
The exhibition also addresses broader themes of evolution, mass extinctions, and significant paleontological discoveries, with specific references to the local territory and its fossil records. The duration of the visit is approximately 60 minutes, though visitors are not limited by time and can revisit sections as desired, provided they adhere to the park’s opening and closing hours.
A Growing Trend in Immersive Paleontology
The “Dinosauri in Carne e Ossa” exhibition is not unique; similar immersive dinosaur experiences are gaining popularity across Europe. A related exhibition, “Dinosaurs in Flesh and Bone – The Park,” is currently located in San Lazzaro di Savena, near Bologna. This exhibition, also conceived and launched in Italy, has been updated with a new setup transforming it into a prehistoric theme park.
The Bologna exhibition features 30 life-sized dinosaur models, created through in-depth paleontological studies and the skills of paleoartists. It also includes a botanical garden with plants reminiscent of prehistoric eras, alongside educational and recreational activities like guided tours and workshops for various age groups. Admission to the Bologna park is €12 for a full-price ticket and €9 for a reduced price.
Rome’s Cultural Landscape and Family Attractions
The arrival of “Dinosauri in Carne e Ossa – LIFE” adds to Rome’s already rich cultural offerings. , saw the opening of a Robert Doisneau exhibition at the Museo del Genio, running until . Palazzo Velli in Trastevere is hosting an exhibition of works by Scottish painter Jack Vettriano. Palazzo delle Esposizioni will host a Mario Schifano exhibition from to .
Rome continues to be a popular destination for families, with a variety of attractions catering to children. Resources like Mama Loves Rome provide local insights into family-friendly activities, museums, and parks within the city. The availability of guided tours at St. Peter’s Basilica, focusing on the legacy of Bernini and the Barberini pope, also offers a cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
The “Dinosauri in Carne e Ossa – LIFE” exhibition at Appia Joy Park represents a blend of education and entertainment, offering a unique opportunity to explore the prehistoric world within the context of Rome’s vibrant cultural scene.