The Byron Museum

Palazzo Guiccioli

The Palazzo complex also hosts the Museo del Risorgimento, which explores the history of the Risorgimento uprisings in the Ravenna area. Central to this tumultuous chapter in local history was the Carbonari, a secret revolutionary society that aimed to promote liberal constitutionalism and Italian independence. Byron’s support for the group triggered his political awakening, which would eventually contribute to his early death while campaigning for independence in Greece, in April 1824.

For the first time, the Museum also displays material that marks another famous event from those torrid times, when revolutionary Giuseppe Garibaldi took refuge in Ravenna, following his dramatic escape after the fall of the Roman Republic. Garibaldian memorabilia now displayed includes material from Bettino Craxi's personal collection from the Craxi Foundation and Giovanni Spadolini.

Weaving together such rich and diverse stories in one complex – and in multiple languages – is challenging. The project was successfully developed via a close collaboration between the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Ravenna’s Scientific Committee, the architect Patrizia Magnani, and the designers, Aurea Progetti. The Italian art collective Studio Azzurro contributed to multimedia and interactive elements in the new exhibition spaces, creating immersive experiences that demonstrate their expertise in blending technology with cultural heritage.Goppion provided more than 40 new display cases for the project. Our involvement reflects the Foundation’s commitment to future generations by prioritizing the durability and quality of its installations. The Foundation demonstrated a keen awareness of preventive conservation practices, adhering to international standards seen in the world’s most prestigious museums.Goppion’s considerable experience working with complex spaces and narratives, plus systematic use of our showcases, made it possible to identify different display solutions, including specific customizations. For example, a unique painting hanging system was developed in collaboration with Takiya, a Japanese company renowned for its art hanging solutions used by institutions such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

The versatility of Goppion display cases allowed for customization, adapting them harmoniously to specific architectural context and the artifacts on display. This includes brightly colored cases that blend with the historic palace’s painted décor, and lectern-style cases inspired by those Goppion previously crafted for the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Primarily utilizing Q Class and B Class showcases, Goppion also designed the plinths, mounts and internal fittings, often custom-made for specific objects, as well as labels and other graphics. Together, these elements all support an innovative and distinctive museographic experience.

Goppion managed the entire fit-out for the museum complex, including protective solutions for all heritage collections, such as the historic Garibaldi Collection. In addition to designing the display cases, Goppion has committed to an ongoing conservation program through a multi-year agreement for regular and special maintenance, ensuring the cases’ functionality and accessibility for many years to come.

Byron’s storied, controversial life and works still exert a powerful fascination today. Doubtless he will continue to be endlessly studied and debated around the world. In Ravenna, visitors have a unique opportunity to know him better. And perhaps the last word is best left to Teresa Guiccioli, who on her deathbed in 1873, is said to have expressed her desire for all her private papers to be shared publicly. ‘The more Byron is known, the better he will be loved’ she said. Today, that dying wish is still honored at Palazzo Guiccioli.