The collection founded by Carlo Emanuele III, Sardinia's King, in 1731 to support the training of young officers of the Sardinian Army, based in the old Arsenal, now known as "Scuola di Applicazione d'Arma" (Weapons Application School). As a consequence of the French occupation in 1798, the collections were dispersed. The Museum was reconstituted by King Carlo Alberto in 1842, and 1861 added the name "Nazionale" (National). In the last decade of the nineteenth century the Museum was transferred to the "Maschio della Cittadella" (Citadel's keep) actual main headquarters. The Museum keeps more than 11,500 exhibits which include mainly weapons of all kinds, of all periods (from the Stone Age to present day artillery) from all over the world. There are also relics, documents, publications and iconographical collections regarding military history. The "Museo Storico Nazionale di Artiglieria" (Historical National Museum of Artillery) of Turin (Italy) holds a first-rate position among similar Museums of the world.