The Mu.Re.1915-1918, also known as the Recovered Museum, has recently inaugurated its new location in Toscolano Maderno. This unique museum offers visitors the opportunity to come into direct contact with over 1,800 artifacts from World War I, coming from the Alto Garda region.
Unlike many traditional museums, the Mu.Re. allows visitors to touch and manipulate the exhibited objects. Paolo “Gibba” Campanardi, a central figure in the museum and well-known to the public for the program “Metal Detective” on Discovery, emphasizes the importance of this tactile experience: “It’s one thing to read information on a panel, it’s another to hold a piece of history in your hands.” Among the exhibited artifacts are bayonets, helmets, hand grenades, and various equipment that tell the story of soldiers’ daily life on the front lines.
Previously located at Benamati 12 since 2019, the museum has moved to a larger and more prestigious location granted by the municipal administration at Palazzo Benamati. The inauguration ceremony saw the enthusiastic participation of Vice Mayor Vittoria Goi, who emphasized the importance of historical memory: “Only those who have experienced war can understand the value of peace.”
The Recovered Museum is the result of the commitment of the Research Group, composed of 15 volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to field research. With over 15,000 hours of research, these enthusiasts explore trenches and fortifications with metal detectors in hand to bring fragments of history to light, such as buckles and helmets. Many of the objects found are then exhibited at the Mu.Re., while others are donated to local Alpine shelters.
In addition to physical objects, the Mu.Re. also hosts a vast photographic collection with 300 historical images, three detailed models, and over 550 books freely accessible to visitors. Visits are possible during the following hours: Friday from 8 pm to 10 pm; Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm and from 8 pm to 10 pm.
Campanardi assures that admission to the museum will always remain free because “memory must be accessible to everyone.” For further information or reservations for guided tours, it is possible to contact the provided telephone number or send an email to the indicated address.
This relocation represents not only a logistical improvement but also a renewed commitment to preserving local historical memory through a direct and engaging experience for all visitors to Lake Garda.
Italian Version
