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Galileo's Right Thumb

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description Galileo's Right Thumb Overview

The right thumb of the Italian astronomer and physicist Galileo Galilei is a historical relic currently preserved at the Museo Galileo in Florence, Italy. It was removed from his remains in 1737 when his body was transferred to a monumental tomb, alongside other fingers and a tooth. After being lost to private collectors for centuries, the thumb was rediscovered at an auction in 2009. The relic is displayed for public viewing alongside his other preserved digits.

help Galileo's Right Thumb FAQ

What exactly is Galileo's Right Thumb?

It is Galileo Galilei's right thumb, preserved as a historical relic. The item is a single detached body part, not a complete hand or a scientific instrument.

Where is Galileo's Right Thumb preserved?

The relic is preserved at the Museo Galileo in Florence, Italy. That museum placement connects the object to Galileo's history as an astronomer and physicist.

When was Galileo's thumb removed from his remains?

The thumb was removed in 1737, when Galileo's remains were transferred to a monumental tomb. The transfer explains why the relic exists as a separate historical object.

Were other relics preserved with Galileo's thumb?

The thumb was kept alongside other relics taken from Galileo's remains, including additional fingers. The group shows that the 1737 transfer produced more than one preserved fragment.

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