When 20th-century architecture accompanied ancient art. The Scarpa Wing reopens at the Canova Gypsotheca in Possagno

The Gypsotheca Antonio Canova in Possagno, Italy, has reopened the Scarpa Wing (Ala Scarpa) after a year-long restoration. Designed by architect Carlo Scarpa between 1955 and 1957, the wing is the only museum Scarpa ever worked on and is considered one of his most complete works. The restoration, funded by 460,000 euros from the Italian Ministry of Culture (MiC), was carried out by the Soprintendenza of Belluno, Padua, and Treviso in collaboration with the municipality of Possagno and the IUAV University. The intervention focused on the most deteriorated section—the trapezoidal "telescope" corridor leading to the Three Graces—improving the roof and water drainage to protect the fragile structure.

This reopening matters because it preserves a landmark of 20th-century architecture that masterfully integrates neoclassical sculpture with modernist design. The Scarpa Wing is a textbook example of how architecture can enhance the perception of art, using light, water, and landscape to create a unique dialogue between Carlo Scarpa's vision and Antonio Canova's works. The restoration ensures the long-term stability of this fragile structure, safeguarding a key piece of Italy's cultural heritage and maintaining the museum's status as a unique site in the Italian museum landscape.