Instruments of Torture

Now Open. Limited Engagement.

Instruments of Torture is a gripping exhibition featuring implements cruelly engineered to inflict unbelievable pain and suffering. But these artifacts also have a deeper significance in helping us understand who we are as human beings. By exploring why torture occurs, even in today’s world, this exhibition compels us to ask “Are people the real instruments of torture?” In addition to the rare artifacts on tour from Italy’s Museo della Tortura, our partnerships with the International Legal Studies Program at California Western School of Law, the Joan Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, and Survivors of Torture, International help address the contemporary issues of torture.

In a post-9/11 world, torture has become a divisive topic. This exhibition goes beyond that debate to explore how we, as humans, respond to events and take action. It examines how, in specific situations, even those who deny they would ever torture another person, do exactly the opposite. Ultimately, the exhibition encourages visitors to contemplate their own human frailty, the conditions that lead to torture, and how they can be upstanders – people who stand up for others – in a world that has too many bystanders. Although torture has persisted over the centuries, we hope one day the only place you hear about torture will be at a museum.

Please Note: Children under age 13 are not admitted to this exhibit without a parent or guardian.

Special pricing for Instruments of Torture. Includes admission to the main museum.
Adults: $20
Seniors/Military: $17
Students/Youth (13-17): $15
Children (12 and under): $12.50
SDMoM Members: $7.50

Special price for Balboa Park Passport Holder: $15 (does not include the price to purchase Balboa Park Passport)
Special price for Stay-for-the-Day Pass Holder: $15 (does not include the price to purchase Stay-for-the-Day Pass)

Group visits are available at reduced rates for a minimum of ten people. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.

EDUCATIONAL GROUPS: including college and high school classes, please contact Margaret Hartnett, Curator of Experiential Learning, at (619) 239-2001 ext. 37, or mhartnett@museumofman.org.

CORPORATE GROUPS: please contact Teri Saffon, Special Events Manager, at (619) 239-2001 ext. 31, or tsaffon@museumofman.org.

ALL OTHER GROUP INQUIRIES: please contact Maria Yushinsky at (619) 239-2001 ext. 10.

Unfortunately, due to the nature of this exhibit, we are unable to accept any coupons for Instruments of Torture.