The northern Italian region ofEmilia Romagna, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy, is set to host a grand tribute to the illustrious Baroque artist, Guercino, in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the destination. The celebration is launching this autumn and promises to be an extraordinary cultural extravaganza, inviting both locals and international visitors to immerse themselves in the life and works of this artistic luminary.
Set to be the epicentre of an artistic renaissance, below are details on a Guercino-inspired journey made up of exhibitions, guided tours and more that visitors can embark on in Emilia Romagna.
A Trail of Artistic Marvels
Giovanni Francesco Barbieri, better known as Guercino, was born in Cento, Emilia Romagna in 1591. His artistic genius illuminated the Baroque era with emotional vibrancy and an unmistakable style. Emilia Romagna invites visitors to enjoy a series of Guercino-related activities, each a testament to his exceptional talent and creativity. Highlights of this artistic pilgrimage include but are not limited to:
- Guercino in the Studio: 28 October 2023 – 11 February 2024
From 28 October 2023 to 11 February 2024, visitors can indulge in a Guercino tribute in the vibrant city of Bologna “Guercino nello studio”. This exhibition will feature 30 works of art, among them La Madonna del passero. Visitors will have the privilege of witnessing the evolution of Guercino’s style and the breadth of his artistic genius.
- Cento: Discovering Guercino’s hometown via guided tours
Cento, the birthplace of Guercino will have guided tours on offer that will take visitors through his childhood home, the local churches adorned with his masterpieces, and other significant sites that shaped his life and career. 25 November will mark the re-opening of the local Pinacoteca, following an impressive refurbishment and will be the new setting for a number of Guercino’s masterpieces.
- Following in the footsteps of Guercino
The renowned German poet, Johann Wolfgang Goethe, made reference to Guercino in his Italian journey. To follow the same path, visitors should consider a trip from Piacenza to Parma and Reggio Emilia, or from Cento (birthplace) to Bologna (place of rest – Chiesa di San Salvatore), discovering various establishments that house the paintings and key locations where he created his legendary works.
This monumental celebration of Guercino’s artistic legacy is made possible through the collaboration of the Emilia Romagna region, local municipalities Bologna and Cento, cultural institutions like Musei Civici Bologna and Cento and Bologna University. Guercino-related itineraries are accessible via the Emilia Romagna website.