Human scale cities

Cities have existed for centuries, but over time, they have concentrated more and more population, becoming increasingly complex spaces. The widespread use of cars, starting in 1920, radically transformed urban environments to accommodate this new means of transport, which provided greater autonomy and comfort for personal travel.

This led many cities around the world to adopt a model similar to Henry Ford’s Detroit, filled with lanes for vehicles and with increasingly limited public space for pedestrians, turning it into a hostile and impersonal environment, dominated by 1,500 kg cars and empty seats.

To showcase alternative urban models, the exhibition combines Playmobil and mapping projections to represent four cities that have found alternatives to the dominance of private cars. These dioramas will captivate younger visitors, showcasing cities that have placed citizens’ well-being at the center of their design.

Moreover, this is the most family-friendly temporary exhibition the museum has ever hosted, offering children a learning experience through play. It is also the most participatory, designed as an open agora where citizens can reflect on their ideal city through a customizable map.