Museums in Venice, Istanbul?
 

Hello all,

I will have an opportunity to visit some interesting locations. On the Adriatic Sea next March 2027. In particular, I have a couple of days in Venice and a couple in Istanbul. I’m trying to identify interesting museums or other venues with a good concentration of arms & armor on display, particularly edged weapons. I already have the Askari Military museum and Topkopi Palace in Istanbul on my list. Any suggestions?

Dave A.

The Doge's palace in Venice also has a nice armory, including some trophies from the wars with the Ottomans.

In Venice you should visit the Museo d'Arte Orientale! ;)

Topkapi Palace in Istanbul is, of course, a must-see, but don't just focus on the weapons collection - there are also some beautiful weapons on display in the Treasury, such as the famous Topkapi dagger.

Thanks for the tips!

I also highly recommend visiting the Istanbul Military Museum.

Hi,
if you can spare a day, you might try visiting the Stibbert Museum in Florence.
It has a large medieval/Renaissance collection, many Japanese weapons and armor, and some interesting weapons from the decommissioned Ottoman Empire armory.
https://www.museostibbert.it/frontend/index.php
Saluti.

not to forget the Pitti Palace :)

I’ve been to Florence twice and visited those museums. In Tuscany there seem to be arms and armor museums in many towns. There is a wonderful little museum in Turin. I don’t remember the name right now. If you see an old man mopping the floor or cleaning up, be sure to greet him and ask a question (Italian only). He acts as an informal, undercover docent and is very knowledgeable about every piece you see, and more. This was about 10 years ago. I hope he is still there!