Visit the wonderful Galleria d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Villa Franceschi (Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art Villa Franceschi) to immerse yourself in beauty for a few hours. Both the house itself and the brilliant collection of modern and contemporary artworks inside are very intriguing. Much of the artwork was produced as part of regional painting competitions.
Stand outside the house and admire its architecture before you step inside. The exterior is notable for the way that it incorporates a mix of art nouveau, neoclassical and neo-Gothic elements. Cast iron decorative features display elements of these styles. Notice the pretty green shutters that contrast so pleasingly with the white walls. Although the villa itself dates back to the early 20th century, the gallery did not open until 2005.
Enter the building and see how a few of the villa’s original pieces of furniture have been placed on display. These perfectly complement the works of art, many of which are drawn from the same early to mid 20th-century period. The open spaces and directed lighting make viewing each piece of art a pleasant experience.
Find the Municipal Collection, where most of the works are drawn from the local area. See late 20th-century pieces by artists such as Maceo Casadei, Federico Moroni, Alberto Sughi and Giulio Turci.
In the Arcangeli Collection find works by artists from farther away in Italy. The post-World War II works displayed here include pieces by Renato Birolli, Alberto Burri, Virgilio Guidi, Pompilio Mandelli, Mattia Moreni, Ennio Morlotti, Vincenzo Satta and others.
Check the gallery’s schedule before you visit, as varied events take place here throughout the year. These include everything from temporary exhibitions to talks, workshops and more.
The Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art Villa Franceschi in central Riccione is open Tuesday through Sunday. It closes on Mondays and Saturdays during the off-season. Pay an entry fee to view the permanent collections. Accessing temporary exhibitions or events may have a separate charge. Purchase the Romagna Visit Card for discounted admission.
