Museo Civico Etnografico Archeologico C.G. Fanchini
Museum | Oleggio | Piemonte | Italy
The Museo Civico Etnografico Archeologico "C.G. Fanchini" in Oleggio, Piedmont, is a significant museum that brings the history and culture of the region to life through its extensive collections and exhibitions.
History and Development
The origins of the museum date back to the 1930s, when the Negri family expressed the desire to establish a museum in Oleggio. However, this initiative initially did not receive much support. The actual collection began with Enzio Julitta, a writer and dialect researcher, who gathered objects related to rural and artisanal life in the region. After his death, his partner, Caterina Palestrini, continued this work. In 1969, the "Mostra permanente di Ricordi e Cimeli locali" was launched, and in 1970 Carlo Giacomo Fanchini, the later namesake of the museum, dedicated himself fully to the project. In 1978, the collection was moved to the first floor of the Palazzo dell'Asilo Infantile, and in 1996, the museum was named in honor of Fanchini.
Collections and Exhibitions
The museum is divided into two main sections:
Archaeological Collection: This department showcases findings from the region, including burial urns and ritual drinking vessels from the Golasecca culture, as well as artifacts from the Roman period, demonstrating the presence of the Celtic Vertamocori and the later Romanization of the area.
Ethnographic Collection: Here, reconstructed rooms from the late 19th and early 20th century are displayed, reflecting domestic life, craft businesses, and fashion of the time. Special attention is given to the depiction of workplaces such as blacksmiths and tailoring, as well as the presentation of traditional clothing.
Significance and Influence
With over 100,000 objects and approximately 40 reconstructed environments, the museum is the largest ethnographic museum in the province of Novara. It plays a central role in preserving and transmitting the cultural heritage of the region, providing visitors with a deep insight into the history and traditions of Oleggio and its surroundings.
