by InTrieste
The city of Trieste once stood as a beacon of maritime innovation during the tumultuous years between the two World Wars. Now, this rich legacy comes to life in “The Journey into Modernity: 1924-1938 Trieste in the Evolution of the Ocean Liner,” an exhibition exploring the artistry and engineering that shaped an era of ocean liner design.
On Saturday, December 7, Anna Longo, a cultural officer with Trieste’s Scientific Museums, will host a free guided tour of the exhibition, offering visitors a deep dive into the city’s contributions to naval architecture during a time of profound change. The tour will take place at 11 a.m. in the Nathan Hall of Magazzino 26, the historical warehouse turned cultural hub located in the Porto Vecchio, Trieste’s old harbor.
The exhibit focuses on Trieste’s shipbuilding innovations between 1924 and 1938, a period when the city navigated the currents of political, social, and industrial transformation. Through archival material, models, and design sketches, the show illuminates how shipyards responded to growing demands for speed, luxury, and style, crafting ocean liners that became floating symbols of modernity.
Ms. Longo will guide visitors through this narrative, connecting the evolution of these majestic vessels to broader historical contexts, including the rise of fascism and the global economic turmoil of the Great Depression.
Space for the tour is limited to 25 participants, underscoring the intimate nature of this immersive experience. Reservations are required and can be made by emailing museomare@comune.trieste.it before noon on Friday, December 6.
For those passionate about maritime history or intrigued by the ways design intersects with culture and politics, this exhibition offers a compelling journey into the heart of Trieste’s shipbuilding heritage.
