# Maria Montessori

## Biography

Maria Tecla Artemisia Montessori was born in Chiaravalle, Italy, on August 31, 1870. Defying traditional gender roles, she pursued a groundbreaking education, becoming one of Italy's first female physicians in 1896. Her medical work, particularly with children with intellectual disabilities, sparked her interest in educational philosophy. Montessori observed that children naturally learn through exploration and interaction with their environment.

This led her to develop her renowned educational approach, the Montessori method. In 1907, she opened the first Casa dei Bambini (Children's House) in Rome, applying her principles to children of all backgrounds. Her innovative techniques emphasized independence, hands-on learning, and a prepared environment. Montessori traveled extensively, spreading her educational philosophy globally through lectures and teacher training courses. She was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times and her influential work continues to shape education worldwide. She passed away in Noordwijk aan Zee, Netherlands, on May 6, 1952.

## Books

- [The Montessori Method: Scientific Pedagogy as Applied to Child Education in 'The Children's Houses' with Additions and Revisions by the Author](https://samolit.com/books/96628)
- [Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook](https://samolit.com/books/96407)