by InTrieste
A historic moment unfolded on December 17 as the Friuli Venezia Giulia region officially acquired Casa Zigaina, the former residence of renowned 20th-century artist Giuseppe Zigaina. The ceremony, held at the artist’s longtime home in Cervignano del Friuli, marked a significant step in preserving and promoting Italy’s cultural heritage.
The handover event brought together key regional leaders and cultural advocates, including Governor Massimiliano Fedriga, Vice Governor Mario Anzil, and Regional Councillor for Heritage Sebastiano Callari. Alessandra Zigaina, the artist’s daughter, represented the family in transferring the property to the Region. Andrea Balducci, the mayor of Cervignano del Friuli, hosted the gathering, which featured a presentation and a guided tour of the home.
A House Steeped in History
Casa Zigaina, where Giuseppe Zigaina lived and created for more than five decades, is considered a cultural gem. Zigaina’s legacy as a master of painting and engraving was evident early in his career, with an exhibition at the Venice Biennale at just 24 years old. Over time, the residence became a hub of creativity, hosting notable figures such as Pier Paolo Pasolini, Maria Callas, and Sandro Pertini.
Governor Fedriga highlighted the importance of the acquisition during his address. “With the acquisition of Casa Zigaina, our Region is preserving an artistic heritage of both local and national significance,” he said. “This house, where art was born, now belongs to the community. It is a space where emotions, encounters, and inspirations converged to shape a remarkable body of work.”
A Vision for the Future
Vice Governor Mario Anzil underscored the Region’s ambitions for Casa Zigaina. Quoting Pier Paolo Pasolini’s 1970 reflection on the home—“In Zigaina’s beautiful house, on the green lawn of Cervignano, you drink wonderful wines and enjoy profoundly and exquisitely sincere hospitality”—Anzil described plans to transform the residence into a vibrant cultural hub.
“This is not just a preservation effort,” Anzil said. “We envision Casa Zigaina as a place of artistic exchange, a modern-day cenacle where creativity thrives. By connecting it with other artist residences, such as Casa Pasolini, we aim to reinterpret and revitalize our region’s rich cultural landscape.”
A Milestone Achievement
Sebastiano Callari, who played a pivotal role in the acquisition process, reflected on its broader significance. “When we proposed this purchase for €850,000, not everyone immediately understood its importance,” Callari said. “Today, it is clear that this was a vital investment in our cultural future.”
The acquisition was made possible through the efforts of ERPAC, the Regional Body for Cultural Heritage of Friuli Venezia Giulia, which will oversee the site’s management. Casa Zigaina is expected to host exhibitions, artist residencies, and workshops, ensuring the home remains a beacon of creativity.
Honoring the Legacy
During the ceremony, Alessandra Zigaina expressed gratitude for the Region’s commitment to preserving her father’s legacy. The house, which also contains one of Italy’s most comprehensive artist archives, will serve as a repository of Zigaina’s life and work, offering insights into his artistic journey.
The event concluded with a tour of the residence, allowing guests to experience firsthand the space where Zigaina’s art came to life. As Friuli Venezia Giulia embarks on this new chapter, Casa Zigaina stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire and unite communities.
