Verbania, a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, is a hidden gem for art and culture enthusiasts. One of the must-visit attractions in Verbania is the Museo del Paesaggio, a museum that showcases the rich history and artistic heritage of the region.
Founded in 1909 on the initiative of Antonio Massara and the Pro Verbano association, Museo del Paesaggio was initially known as the "Historical and Artistic Museum of Verbano and the adjacent valleys." It was officially inaugurated on September 19, 1909, with a regional art exhibition held in the halls of the ancient Casa Viani, provided by the Municipality of Pallanza.
The museum found its permanent home in 1914 at Palazzo Viani Dugnani, a beautiful historic building owned by the municipality. With the move, the institution was renamed "Museo del Paesaggio," emphasizing its focus on the intimate and ever-changing aspects of the landscape shaped by human life.
Museo del Paesaggio boasts an impressive collection of artworks that highlight the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Galleria d'arte del Paesaggio, an integral part of the museum, showcases stunning views of the territory created by 19th-century and contemporary artists. The collection was made possible through generous donations and the patronage of influential figures like Marco De Marchi.
Over the years, the museum's collection has continued to grow. In 1938, following the death of Paolo Troubetzkoy, his heirs donated all the works housed in his Parisian studio in Neuilly-sur-Seine and at Cà Bianca in Suna. These additions further enriched the museum's offerings.
After a period of decline following the founder's passing, Museo del Paesaggio experienced a renaissance in the late 1930s. The establishment of the city of Verbania in 1939 allowed the museum to acquire additional artworks previously housed in the Sala Storica Intrese, including works by Luigi Litta and Daniele Ranzoni.
In the 1960s, a new era of growth and renewal began for the museum. Thanks to the collaboration with the Soprintendenza alle Gallerie del Piemonte, led by Noemi Gabrielli, and the dedication of a group of volunteers led by Gianni Pizzigoni, the institution organized annual exhibitions and published works dedicated to local and non-local artists. This period saw a deepening of the connection between the territory and the museum's collections.
Museo del Paesaggio is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, except on Tuesdays. However, during the period from July 14th to August 25th, the museum extends its opening hours until 10:00 pm on Fridays, allowing visitors to enjoy the exhibits in a more atmospheric setting.
When visiting Verbania, make sure to include Museo del Paesaggio in your itinerary. Immerse yourself in the captivating artworks that depict the ever-changing landscape of the region. From the stunning views of Lake Maggiore to the intimate portrayals of human life, this museum offers a unique perspective on the beauty of Verbania and its surroundings.
So, whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking to explore the cultural heritage of Verbania, Museo del Paesaggio is a must-visit destination that will leave you inspired and in awe of the artistic treasures it holds.