Fondazione Luigi Rovati: A Cultural Oasis in Milan

The Fondazione Luigi Rovati’s ambitious project, led by Mario Cucinella Architects, culminates in the revitalization of Milan’s historic Palazzo Bocconi-Rizzoli-Carraro, now a vibrant cultural hub at 52 Corso Venezia. Over the span of seven years, the meticulous renovation and expansion efforts have birthed a transformative addition to the city’s cultural landscape.

A Fusion of History and Modernity

At the heart of this endeavor lies the creation of the Foundation’s underground galleries, showcasing the Etruscan collection in an unparalleled setting. Beneath the palazzo’s storied halls, visitors are transported to ethereal spaces, adorned with limestone and housing over two hundred ancient Etruscan artifacts. These treasures, meticulously displayed within custom-designed cases, stand alongside works by contemporary luminaries, bridging the gap between antiquity and modernity.

Architectural Marvels Underground

The architectural narrative of the underground realm draws inspiration from the ancient Etruscan tombs of Cerveteri, infusing the space with a sense of mystique and historical reverence. Comprising circular and elliptical domed caverns, the Hypogeum Floor’s design pays homage to its ancient predecessors while embracing 21st-century innovation.

Seamless Integration

A stone stairway serves as the gateway to the Hypogeum Floor, seamlessly connecting the underground galleries with the street-level entrance hall. Here, visitors are greeted by a vibrant courtyard garden, offering glimpses of the museum’s domes amidst verdant surroundings. The mezzanine hosts the administrative offices of the Luigi Rovati Foundation, embodying a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Reimagining Tradition

The restoration of the palazzo’s piano nobile embraces a delicate balance of tradition and modernity, with contemporary interventions thoughtfully woven into the fabric of the historic structure. From temporary event spaces on the second floor to the Andrea Aprea restaurant on the third, each level of the palazzo offers a unique sensory experience, inviting visitors on a journey through time and culture.

Engineering Ingenuity

Mario Cucinella Architects navigated a bold engineering challenge, suspending the palazzo’s superstructure mid-air during the excavation of the underground museum. This feat of engineering prowess mirrored the thematic essence of the Etruscan galleries, where artifacts seemingly float on invisible pedestals, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

In essence, the Fondazione Luigi Rovati stands as a testament to architectural innovation and cultural preservation, enriching Milan’s cultural tapestry with its timeless elegance and forward-thinking design.