The Museum of Scales in Monterchi showcases part of the scale and weight collection amassed by Velio Ortolani, one of the most important collections of its kind in the world. Ortolani started collecting scales in the early 1960’s, acquiring them from the antique market and secondhand dealer shops. Thanks to Ortolani’s passion and generosity, more than one hundred objects are on display from the extraordinary collector, including the oldest piece in the collection, a scale weight that dates back to the 15th century.
The museum also offers an interactive educational excursion, composed of panels and devices, through ancient professions including toll keeping and moneychanging, as well as places that have been lost over time, including silkworm farms.