In the heart of the fascinating Oltrepò Pavese territory, stands the Magazzino dei Ricordi in Cascine Mirani, Zavattarello. Created with the passionate vision of Virgilio Bruni in 2004 and with the active involvement of the local community, this museum is an authentic treasure chest offering an exciting journey through a century of traditions.
In the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese, in Cascine Mirani, lies a magical place steeped in history: the Magazzino dei Ricordi. This unique museum, born from the vision and passion of Virgilio Bruni, a citizen of Zavattarello, represents an authentic treasure chest that recounts a century of local traditions.
The Genesis of the Magazzino dei Ricordi
The idea of creating the Magazzino dei Ricordi began thanks to the enterprising will of Virgilio Bruni and the generous support of the local community. In 2004, the ‘Magazzino dei Ricordi‘ Cultural Association took shape with the declared aim of safeguarding and preserving the rich rural culture of the Oltrepò Pavese.
Bruni‘s impetus and the collaboration of those who contributed to the collection of objects gave rise to a true exhibition celebrating traditions handed down from generation to generation. The museum aims to revive the past through the reconstruction of emblematic environments and the presentation of more than 10,000 objects dating from the period between 1720 and 1970.
A Journey through Time Through Emblematic Environments
The Magazzino dei Ricordi (Warehouse of Memories) offers visitors a unique experience, an evocative journey through time through the presentation of environments that characterised the daily life of the citizens of the Oltrepò Pavese. Farmers‘ kitchens, tailors‘ rooms, barbers‘ shops and schools are faithfully reconstructed, bringing to light the history and traditions of a community tied to its roots.
The craftsmen‘s workshops of the past, such as those of the shoemaker, blacksmith and farrier, are also protagonists in the narration of a world that made art and manual skills its beating heart. Every object on display becomes a tangible testimony of man‘s toil and his craftsmanship.
Preserving the Memory of an Ancient World
The Magazzino dei Ricordi presents itself as a guardian of memory, committed to the preservation of an ancient world in danger of being forgotten. Hundreds of exhibits offer a detailed insight into a history of manual labour, daily toil, but also intimate scenes of family life.
The association plays an active role in preserving this cultural heritage, organising educational and recreational activities involving the community. Educational workshops allow visitors, young and old, to immerse themselves in a fascinating past, perhaps a little nostalgic, but fundamental for understanding the roots and history of the mountainous Oltrepò.
The Association‘s Cultural Contribution
The ‘Magazzino dei Ricordi‘ Cultural Association is not limited to museum exhibitions, but is actively involved in the dissemination of the rural culture of the Oltrepò Pavese. Through initiatives such as educational and recreational workshops, the association offers a unique opportunity to explore the territory and its ancient crafts.
The museum thus becomes a point of reference for the local community, a place where generations can meet, learn and share their history. The Magazzino dei Ricordi is not just a museum, but a bridge between the past and the present, a catalyst for culture and knowledge.
In conclusion, the Magazzino dei Ricordi (Warehouse of Memories) in Zavattarello is much more than a museum: it is a living treasure that tells the stories, labours and joys of a community rooted in its history. Thanks to Virgilio Bruni‘s commitment and the enthusiasm of the community, this magical place continues to be a beacon that illuminates the traditions of the Oltrepò Pavese, allowing everyone to embrace the past and look to the future with awareness and gratitude.
