The bicycle, more than any other object, represents the perfect fusion of ingenuity, elegance and passion, values deeply rooted in Italian culture. The Italian Institute of Culture in Edinburgh is proud to present a temporary exhibition that aims to recount the history and identity of Italian cycling.
The free exhibition, which will run from 11th June – 16th July, features 12 significant bicycles, including 6 historic models from the Madonna del Ghisallo Cycling Museum Collection. Also 6 models on loan from Italian companies that have shaped the history of cycling. Among the bicycles on display will be an early 20th-century Bianchi racing bike with a block brake and a Legnano bike ridden by Gino Bartali in the 1938 Tour de France.
The Madonna del Ghisallo Cycling Museum was opened in 2006 and is located in Magreglio (Como), next to the sanctuary of the same name dedicated to the Madonna del Ghisallo, who was proclaimed Patron Saint of Cyclists by Pope Pius XII in 1949. It was strongly championed by Fiorenzo Magni, a great champion of Italian cycling, with the aim of creating a place to commemorate and celebrate cycling in all its forms. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of bicycles, jerseys, trophies and historical documents, which belonged to the greatest figures in world cycling. More than just a museum, the Ghisallo stands as a symbol of Italian sporting culture, bringing together history, technology, faith and passion in a place that is iconic for all cycling enthusiasts.
On the evening of the opening of the exhibition on 11th June at 5:30pm, there will lead ride to the Italian Institute of Culture in Edinburgh for a special free preview event, get tickets here, organised in collaboration with the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling.
If you are not biking to the event with the Edinburgh Festival of Cycling, you will still be able to join if there are any remaining spaces. If you wish to join the waiting list, please email rsvp.iicedimburgo@esteri.it (please include the full names of all the guests in your party).
For those wishing to attend the exhibition on the following days/weeks the procedure is instead to write an email to: rsvp.iicedimburgo@esteri.it (please include the full names of all the guests in your party). This event is free, however, booking in advance is required.
Opening times (by appointment only)
Mondays to Thursdays
9.30-13.30 / 14.30 -16.00
Fridays
9.30-13.00
Please note that security checks will be in place on arrival.
Please note that photographs and footage will be taken throughout the event. These images and videos may be used for marketing, publicity, and other purposes, including on our website and social media channels. If you do not wish to have your image used, please inform the event organisers or contact eventi.iicedimburgo@esteri.it before the event.
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