Museo della Barbie

The Barbie Museum in Ripatransone presents a collector's archive of Barbie and Ken dolls, including early models and designs that reflect changing fashions.

Why it matters

The collection offers a personal perspective on the history of a globally recognised toy and its relationship to fashion and popular culture. Assembled by collector Rosella Iobbi, it preserves dolls and outfits gathered over several decades.

What to notice

The collection includes a first-edition Barbie from 1959, an early Ken, and a Bild Lilli doll that predates Barbie. Other dolls wear period clothing and designer fashions, including pieces associated with Givenchy and Versace. The selection displayed changes over time as the collection is arranged in different ways.

Context and history

Rosella Iobbi began collecting Barbie dolls as a girl. Her collection became a public exhibition called Fashion Dolls in 2008, and the municipality later accorded it museum status. The collection includes several hundred dolls on display from a larger personal holding of Barbie and Ken dolls.