THE SECRET HIDDEN GEMS OF CHIETI
Yesterday as part of our monthly calendar we revisited the beautiful city of Chieti. This time we enjoyed an interesting guided tour of the stunning Teatro Marrucino Chieti and a visit to the hidden away art museum of Museo D'Arte Costantino Barbella. The theatre restored to all its glory in the 1970's is stunning, we learnt of its history, and admired the beautiful priceless Murano glass chandelier as well as some of the the original stage costumes. Standing proudly in the foyer were two large sculptures in terracotta by the Sculptor Costantino Barbella. They were a gift to the theatre, and after the museum visit we headed just around the corner to the 17th century Palace Martinetti-Bianchi, a former jesuit college, that houses the Art Museum dedicated to this prestigious sculptor. It is divided into 5 sections and includes important sculptures in terracotta and bronze, paintings, frescoes, sketches and ceramics dating from the 13th century to today with particular emphasis on local artists such as Barbella, Michetti, Spoltore, Sassu, Larry Rivers and Jose Ortega. It also houses an original and beautiful handwritten manuscript by the poet, playwright and journalist Gabriele D'Annunzio.
This was another day of joyful discovery. If you are a lover of culture and the arts then Abruzzo has it in bucket loads, you just have to know where to look or who to visit with... Max of course! Galleries without the crowds expertly organised by Max...... Who is coming to the next discovery day?
To find out more and to join us on one of our calendar days out please e mail
