THE LOCATION
HZERO brings new life to Florence’s historic cinema
THE MUSEUM IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF FLORENCE IN THE FORMER ARISTON CINEMA
The HZERO museum is located in the heart of Florence, within the former Ariston Cinema, just steps from the Santa Maria Novella train station. The space was repurposed for the exhibition while preserving its original character as a place of entertainment.
This decommissioned cinema is the perfect setting for an installation centered around a romantic subject like the train—a symbol not only of childhood imagination but also of modernity. Trains have been the quintessential toy for children since the last century and continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
A repurposed space where every detail evokes the imagery of travel
The museum project is the result of a restoration and functional adaptation overseen by architect Luigi Fragola, who divided the 900-square-meter complex into two main areas: one housing the model railway and the other dedicated to educational workshops, screenings, and themed exhibitions.
From the grand atrium reminiscent of train station halls to clocks displaying the time zones of major cities, from the track-inspired motifs in the flooring and signage to the benches and second-floor windows—every detail was thoughtfully chosen to make the theme of travel central to the space itself.
"Finding an old abandoned cinema, perfect for housing the model railway, also became an opportunity to give back to the city a lost place of entertainment."
The Museum as a Venue for Your Events
With its central location near Florence’s train station and major connections, the HZERO museum is the perfect venue for your events. We have hosted meetings, private parties, birthdays, book launches, and film screenings, utilizing unique spaces like the cinema room and the second floor. Additionally, the TAG bistro offers the flexibility to create themed menus tailored to your needs.