NAPLES, January 20, 2026 – The Carnival Foundation of Viareggio and the Foqus Foundation are co-organizing the vernissage of the exhibition titled “Viareggio Naples – Andata e Ritorno.” This unique exhibition aims to establish a profound visual dialogue between two Italian cities, each with distinct cultural traditions and imaginative expressions, finding a common ground in the poetic art of paper-mache.
Exhibition Inauguration in Naples
The inaugural event is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 12:30 PM, and will be held at the Foqus Foundation’s headquarters in Naples. The venue is strategically located in the heart of the Spanish Quarters, specifically at via Portacarrese a Montecalvario, 69.
This initiative, which has received patronage from the City of Viareggio, the Municipality of Naples, and the Tuscany Region, serves to celebrate the rich artistry and creativity that intertwine the historical tradition of the Viareggio Carnival with the vibrant cultural scene of Naples.
Distinguished Guests and Speakers
The vernissage will feature a lineup of prominent figures from both cities and regional administrations. Speakers will include Gaetano Manfredi, the Mayor of Naples; Giorgio Del Ghingaro, the Mayor of Viareggio; Maria Lina Marcucci, President of the Viareggio Carnival Foundation; and Rachele Furfaro, President of the Foqus Foundation. Their presence underscores the significance of this cultural exchange and the collaborative spirit behind the exhibition.
A Dialogue Through Paper-Mache
The exhibition itself is designed to highlight the artistic connections and shared heritage between Viareggio and Naples. Viareggio is renowned globally for its spectacular Carnival, characterized by massive and intricate paper-mache floats. Naples, on the other hand, boasts a rich cultural tapestry that has inspired artists for centuries. The use of paper-mache as a unifying medium speaks to the ingenuity and artistic expression prevalent in both regions.
The title, “Viareggio Naples – Andata e Ritorno” (Viareggio Naples – Round Trip), metaphorically suggests a journey of artistic ideas and influences traveling between the two cities, enriching each other’s cultural landscapes. This exchange not only showcases the unique artistic talents but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy’s diverse regional cultures.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Such cultural events are vital for promoting tourism and strengthening inter-regional ties. By bringing together the artistic traditions of Viareggio and the cultural dynamism of Naples, the exhibition is expected to attract both local residents and tourists, thereby boosting cultural engagement and local economies. The collaboration between the two foundations and the support from municipal and regional authorities demonstrate a concerted effort to invest in cultural initiatives that have a broad appeal.
The exhibition is anticipated to run for a significant period, allowing ample opportunity for visitors to experience the unique blend of Viareggio’s Carnival artistry with Neapolitan cultural narratives. Further details regarding the exhibition’s duration and any associated events will likely be announced following the inauguration.
This event marks a significant moment in the cultural calendars of both Viareggio and Naples, promising to be a memorable experience for art enthusiasts and the general public alike, showcasing the enduring power of art to build bridges between communities.
Source: https://www.ansa.it/campania/notizie/2026/01/20/viareggio-e-napoli-un-ponte-di-cartapesta-tra-due-culture_82d546a6-5a1b-4e25-b81a-e9b929f278ab.html
