On 23 June 1927, the Directorate of Superior Studies and Experiments was established within Guidonia-Montecelio Airport.
This immediately marked it out as having world-class excellence, one of the earliest and most advanced centres for scientific research and development, where engineers and chemists, along with other highly specialised professionals, undertook a series of experiments on everything related to flight, including new aircraft, armaments, and equipment.
In fact, the research process involved a study phase followed by an experimentation phase using empirical tests. It was precisely for this second phase that the wind tunnels and the hydrodynamic tank were built, in order to test and compare with scale models what was being theorised and designed on paper.
The events following 1943, including the bombing of the Guidonia-Montecelio airfield, resulted in considerable damage to the structures of the time, which were further subject to deterioration over time.
Currently, among the artefacts still visible along the route, there are the three buildings of the Aerodynamics Section which housed the wind tunnels, the “double return” tunnel and the supersonic tunnel, the most advanced of its time for power and performance, also known as the “stratospheric ultrasonic tunnel”.
Another notable element is the Hydrodynamics Section, whose tank was among the largest and most innovative of that period.
The entire footprint of the DSSE is virtually navigable in its digital twin (so-called. Digital twinand is accessible through an immersive experience which, using a 3D viewer, enhances its activities and experimental methodologies, bringing clarity to what is in fact a heritage of industrial archaeology.
The recovery and revaluation activities for the entire infrastructural complex have therefore enabled the creation of a historical and museum pathway of the Italian Air Force in the Roman area, accompanied by a photographic and thematic exhibition, and an audiovisual production through which to experience an engaging multimedia journey.
From 27 April 2023, the opening day of the DSSE, it is possible to visit the exhibition area by appointment.
Saturday and Sunday: individual visitors and families, by appointment only.
Every day: Associations, School groups and Organised groups, with times and dates to be agreed with the Booking Office.
Visits are free.
Single visitors and families must book in advance (CALENDAR IS DEFINITELY BEING DEVELOPED).
The dates and time slots will be made available monthly.
Each visitor will be able to book for a maximum of 5 people. After booking, a QR CODE will be generated to be carried with you to allow access to the 60th Wing in Guidonia, along with valid identification. Access will only be permitted for the booked time and date.
At the time of booking, please include your own phone number for any communications.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the booked time to facilitate the accreditation.
There is a public car park outside the airport, while disabled visitors' cars will be able to access the interior.
Bringing a smartphone/tablet with headphones/earphones will allow access to the multimedia content available during the guided tour.
DSSE Museum
“Alfredo Barbieri” Airport”
Maurizio Simone Lane, 1
00012 – Guidonia (Rome)
Booking Office and Information
The office is open Monday to Thursday from 09:00 to 16:00 and Friday from 09:00 to 11:30.
Telephone: +39 320 4265986 (mobile)
E-mail: aerostormo60.dir@aeronautica.difesa.it
The schedule for the new visits will be defined shortly; please check again in mid-September.
