Abstract
From the late Middle Ages and the beginning of modern times (15th and 16th Centuries) we are able to follow in Europe the role of museums and galleries as tools used for the construction of a social identity for individuals and groups. One can speak about the identity of collectors and lovers of the art; the identity of noble families proclaiming their ancient origin; the identity of rulers and office-holders legitimizing themselves as rulers; the identity of ascientists and ther scientific domains.
During the 19th century the concept of national identity developed strongly. The role of ethnological and historical museums has been crucial in all these cases.