THE COLLECTIONS
Through a journey into the ingenuity and innovation of the 19th century, the Enrico Bernardi Museum presents the works and inventions that marked the evolution of motor technology in Europe. Each piece tells a chapter in the history of the automobile and the internal combustion engine, bringing to light the figure of Enrico Bernardi, his projects, and his entrepreneurial vision. With educational paths and dedicated insights, the museum opens its doors to the public offering a unique and complete look at a tradition that continues to inspire today’s technological evolution.
The collection
A journey through 19th-century engines and inventions that reveals the innovative research of Enrico Bernardi, pioneer of Italian motoring.
The Lauro engine
Discover the innovations that revolutionized the world of engines, through the cutting-edge engineering solutions devised by Enrico Bernardi.
The Pia engine
An engine with a pioneering spirit that combines technology and vision: a step forward in the world of 19th-century engineering.
Enrico Bernardi
An in-depth look dedicated to a pioneer in the field of engines and vehicle mechanics, to explore ideas and innovations that have transformed the history of mobility.
HISTORY
Discover how and when the Enrico Bernardi Museum came to be and why it continues to preserve the original inventions of the pioneer of Italian motoring.
RESEARCH
Publications
Discover the publications dedicated to Enrico Bernardi, pioneer of the internal combustion engine, to deepen his contribution to the history of technology and motoring.
Projects
The Museum is committed to projects for the conservation and enhancement of historical-technological heritage, with initiatives that pay homage to engineering and technical innovation.
MUSEO DIGITALE
Video gallery
Una selezione di video per scoprire la storia e le attività del Museo Enrico Bernardi, con contenuti di approfondimento, iniziative e contributi speciali.
Collezioni digitali
Un archivio digitale per esplorare modelli, documenti e immagini delle invenzioni di Enrico Bernardi. Un patrimonio storico accessibile a tutti, che apre le porte dell’innovazione tecnica e scientifica.
WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT US
“The Museum hosts, within a Faculty of Engineering of the University of Padua, unique and authentic pieces as well as functioning ones that belong to the history of technology. The visit, guided by a young passionate and competent expert, is clear and well-presented even when the context is technically complex for novice audiences.”
– PF Pisani
“The museum allows visitors to experience it across various media: from text, videos on digital monitors, to technical insights using interactive systems. During your visit, you will be accompanied by a guide expert in the technical field who know how to capture your interest and answer your questions. The visit is also suitable for younger visitors. “
– Giulio
“A small museum, but rich in history and innovation! Although collected in a single room, the Enrico Bernardi Machine Museum leads you on a fascinating journey into the world of engines and the vision of a brilliant pioneer of motoring. I was lucky enough to visit it accompanied by its curator, who was super welcoming and very prepared. Each piece on display has a story to tell!”
– Elisa
THE STAFF
Fanny Marcon
Scientific Heritage Curator
With a PhD in History of Science, Fanny Marcon is currently curator of the scientific and technological heritage and the Bernardi Museum of the University of Padua. Her research focuses on the history of scientific instrumentation and the history of science between the 18th and 20th centuries.
Alberto Benato
Visit Coordinator
A researcher at the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Padua, he deals with energy systems and fluid machines. He teaches in mechanical engineering degree courses and, since 2019, organizes and guides visits to the Enrico Bernardi Machine Museum.
Giovanna Cavazzini
Scientific Director
Associate Professor at the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Padua, she deals with energy production and storage systems and fluid machines. She teaches in Mechanical Engineering degree courses and, since 2019, is scientific referent of the Enrico Bernardi Machine Museum.