Coming back home from Sicily, I finally had the chance to visit the MUSAM, an acronym (in Italian) for MUseo Storico Aeronautica Militare, located in Vigna di Valle, near Rome. This large museum collects a large part of the Italian production (and not only) from the dawn of flight to modern times. Some subjects, from the war period of WW2 are of great modeling interest, such as the Macchi MC 202 Folgore, or the Macchi MC 205 Veltro or even their predecessor MC 200 SAETTA. I also mention the fantastic SAVOIA MARCHETTI SM 79, nicknamed GOBBO (hunchback) due to the particular shape of the upper fuselage.
Here is a quick overview, certainly not exhaustive, reminding you that the museum website is also available: (https://www.aeronautica.difesa.it/home/storia-e-tradizione/museo-storico/) for a virtual visit.
For those who will have the opportunity to visit Rome and my Italy, I really recommend a visit, especially if you are modelists.
Greetings
Dan
The MC 202
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The MC 205
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Others
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The SM79 Sparviero (the hunchback)
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Thanks for posting these- a beautiful collection of machines. I especially like that red F-104!
Yes thank you. I find Italian aircraft of WW2 fascinating. Really need to add an example at some point
Forget the Vatican. If I ever get to Italy I’m going to that museum. Thanks for the pics.
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Thank you all for your appreciation! This beautiful museum contains many more planes that I have not posted or photographed. In addition to this, a number of engines that powered the planes and a good amount of original memorabilia.
Real gold for kit makers.
A special section is dedicated to the Italian WWI ace Francesco Baracca, who was shot down on his last mission, including the remains of the original engine, machine gun and other things. Very fascinating indeed.
There is also a small section with helicopters.
Again, there is much more to see than what I have posted. It really takes a few hours to visit it and admire all the beauties inside (and outside). Last but not least, the location of the museum deserves itself a visit, directly on the Bracciano lake’s shore, a lovely place surrounded by charming villages overlooking the shores.
Dan
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