Improving Mental Health through Museums: Italy’s Exploration of the Healing Potential of Museum Spaces

The article explores the potential of museums as spaces to improve mental well-being, focusing on the Italian project "Luoghi Comuni." Building on scientific evidence about the role of the arts in health, the project involved museums in Turin in participatory initiatives to promote the social inclusion of individuals with mental health vulnerabilities. Through co-design workshops, guided visits, and digital evaluation tools, the project assessed the "gentleness" of museum spaces, defined as their ability to make vulnerable visitors feel comfortable and welcome. The results highlight the value of collaborations between cultural and healthcare institutions, opening new possibilities for considering museums as places for mental well-being and reducing the stigma associated with mental health.