The International Museum of Caricature in Tolentino is the first cultural institution  of this type in Italy and is recognized today as a fundamental reference point for artists, cartoonists, critics, students and enthusiasts alike. Inaugurated in 1970 and  housed in the monumental Palazzo Sangallo at the heart of the town, it has over 3,000 original works by celebrated artists of humour and caricature from all ages and countries. It is divided into the Historical Gallery with its vast collection of satirical magazines of compelling interest, such as the French "Le rire", the German "Simplicissimus" the English "Punch";  the Gallery of Caricature  entirely dedicated to portaits of illustrious men, such as the superb caricature of Levine or Fellini; the Gallery of Humour that offers a broad view  of the world of humour in art and allows an immediate comparison of the various international schools. Particularly worthy of mention are the delightful vignettes of Lassalvy, the splendid panels by Born, the elegant graphic composition of Folon.