Alfa Romeo Historical Museum: The Time Machine

Located in Arese, Milan, the Alfa Romeo Historical Museum has always been called “The Time Machine.” Throughout its history, it has been renovation and reopened to the public many times with the latest opening being in 2015. It collects memorabilia of the 1960s which carry special meanings to the Alfa Romeo brand.

The museum opened in 1976, but could be visited only by appointment. Unfortunately, following the cessation of production in Arese, just outside of Milan, it was closed in 2009.

The idea of a museum dedicated to the great Italian car brand and its history was actually born in the years following World War II. It started housing and organizing memorabilia, in addition to organizing the restoration of cars and writing of captions for the “works” to be exhibited. This ended up being a long and painstaking process that lasted for many years. Today, the car brand is finally on show again in Arese, in an even bigger space, which is charming and refined.

The 69 models that have significantly marked the evolution of the brand are on display. From the first A.L.F.A. car, the 24 HP, to the winners of the legendary Mille Miglia as the 6C 1750 Gran Sport of Tazio Nuvolari, the heavyweight 8C Touring, and the Grand Prix 159 "Alfetta 159" of World Formula 1 champion Juan Manuel Fangio.

Part of the museum houses the Alfa Romeo Documentation Center, which contains a large historical archive containing scanned images for inspection, technical publications, drawings, films and documents, reviewing the entire company history, its sport activities and products.

Therefore, Alfa Romeo is Milan, and it means design, innovation, tradition, and beauty.