World War II Museum Piana delle Orme
An Exclusive Experience Included in Our Battlefield Tours
Just 40 minutes from Anzio, nestled between Borgo Faiti and Borgo San Michele near the city of Latina, lies one of Italy’s most extraordinary and little-known historical treasures: the largest private collection of WWII artifacts in the country, and one of the most comprehensive military museums in Europe.
This museum, which is always included in my tours, covers an area of over 25,000 square meters and is set up as a vast open-air historical park, divided into multiple themed pavilions and exhibition areas. While its primary focus is on World War II, the collection extends to other fascinating aspects of Italian history and rural life, offering something for everyone — from military historians and veterans’ families to curious travelers and children.
WWII Dioramas and Exhibits
Immersive dioramas illustrate Italy’s entry into the war, the North African Campaign, the Allied landings at Anzio, and the Battle of Monte Cassino.
You’ll walk through carefully reconstructed scenes that help bring these historic moments to life, complete with original uniforms, weapons, and personal memorabilia.
Vehicles and Tanks
The museum houses a remarkable array of WWII vehicles — many of them authentic Allied tanks, jeeps, and artillery pieces left behind during the war and recovered from the Italian countryside.
One of the most extraordinary pieces is the Duplex Drive Sherman Tank, an amphibious tank designed for beach landings.
This particular DD Sherman was recovered from the seabed off Salerno in 1998.
Its preserved skeleton and propeller system demonstrate how the tank once floated ashore, dropped its flotation gear, and advanced inland.
It’s one of the few surviving examples in the world — and it's here, in this unique museum.
Farming and Pontine History
The museum also explores local heritage, including a collection of over 300 vintage tractors and agricultural machines.
There is an entire section dedicated to the drainage of the Pontine Marshes during the 1930s, a major feat of engineering and propaganda under Mussolini’s regime.
Reconstructed scenes of daily life under Fascism help visitors understand the broader historical context in which the war unfolded.
Military Toys and Model Making
For younger visitors and enthusiasts, there is an extensive display of WWII-themed toys, model soldiers, and scale reconstructions.
These exhibits not only provide a nostalgic look into the past but also engage the imagination and curiosity of new generations.
This museum is not just a collection — it is a living archive of memory, curated with passion and attention to detail. It offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to physically connect with the landscapes, machines, and personal stories of World War II. It is a highlight of our historical tours for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the Italian Campaign and the sacrifices made by so many.
This museum experience is included as a standard part of my Anzio and Cassino battlefield tours, but it can also be added to a custom day trip from Rome or Latina, especially for those interested in military history, education, or immersive experiences.
If you are planning a personalized itinerary or following in the footsteps of a family member who served in Italy, this is a stop you won’t want to miss.
Contact for private tours, bookings, or more information:
Danila Bracaglia
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
WhatsApp: +39 338 2458831
Step into history. Walk among tanks. Learn the stories.
Join me for a private visit to the largest WWII collection in Italy.