Giuseppe and Titina Dal Verme’ Museum of Contemporary Art: a dialogue between history and art in the heart of Zavattarello

Within the ancient walls of Zavattarello’s Dal Verme Castle, one of the most iconic historical symbols of the Oltrepò Pavese area, a surprising artistic itinerary unfolds: the ‘Giuseppe and Titina Dal Verme’ Museum of Contemporary Art, recognised as a Museum Collection by the Lombardy Region in 2014, is today one of the most fascinating cultural stops in the entire hill region.
Cover image taken from Ministry of Culture website
A museum in dialogue with history
Since 2003, the castle’s rooms have housed a collection of contemporary Italian art stretching from the second half of the 20th century to the present. An evolving heritage, created thanks to the generous gesture of the artists who exhibited in the castle’s rooms and donated some of their works to the municipality of Zavattarello. From these early donations emerged the original core of the museum, which continues to grow year after year.
In addition to contemporary works, it also features paintings by Count Giuseppe Dal Verme, a nobleman and artist who owned the castle in the early 20th century. The decision to name the museum after him and his wife, Titina Gavazzi, is a heartfelt tribute to their love for art and for the fortress itself, which was donated to citizenship by the heirs in 1975.
An eclectic itinerary for curious visitors
The heterogeneity of the works on display is one of the distinguishing features of this museum: each room tells a different story, each painting speaking its own artistic language. The result is a dynamic and stimulating experience, combining the evocative power of the castle’s medieval history with the expressive vibrancy of contemporary art.
It is not uncommon to meet visitors who, on their way to Zavattarello to explore the medieval fortress, discover with wonder a living, breathing museum, capable of surprising even the most discerning audience. Every year, thousands of people climb to the fortress to admire not only its imposing architecture, but also this magnificent artistic collection.
Useful information
📍 ‘Giuseppe and Titina Dal Verme’ Museum of Contemporary Art
📌 Dal Verme Castle – Via Dal Verme 4, Zavattarello (PV)
Tel. 0383 589132
📧 E-mail: castello@zavattarello.org
Website: www.castellodalverme.com
Facebook: Zavattarello Museum of contemporary art
🏛️ Type of recognition: Museum Collection – Lombardy Region (2014)