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A major exhibition dedicated to the scientific genius of Leonardo Da Vinci opened in Rome on Wednesday, part of a programme of special events across the country to mark the 500th anniversary of the death of the artist and inventor, The Local Italy reports.

The show at the Scuderie del Quirinale palace, entitled "La scienza prima della scienza" ('science before science'), traces the technological and scientific work of da Vinci and reflects on how "the myth of Leonardo" was developed.

More than 200 pieces will be on display including some of his most famous works, which are credited with developing the parachute, helicopter and tank, the museum said ahead of the launch.

Da Vinci was a "European citizen of the world," said exhibition curator Claudio Giorgione.

The polymath was a driving force behind the Renaissance and worked in numerous fields, including painting, sculpture, architecture, science, mathematics and astronomy.

His most recognisable artworks include the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.

The exhibition devotes an entire room to Da Vinci's "military genius" with several reproductions of his designs, including his famous "giant crossbow".

Da Vinci was born in the Medici-ruled Republic of Florence in 1452. He died in France in 1519 and is the most famous left-handed painter in history.