Birthplace of Gabriele D'Annunzio Museum

In the heart of Pescara, Italy, on the charming Corso Manthoné, stands a building that whispers tales of literary brilliance and historical significance. This is the Birthplace of Gabriele D'Annunzio Museum, known locally as Museo casa natale Gabriele D'Annunzio. Declared a national monument in 1927, this 18th-century structure invites visitors to step back in time and explore the life and works of one of Italy's most renowned poets, playwrights, and soldiers, Gabriele D'Annunzio.

The Historical Significance

The house became the property of the D'Annunzio family in the 19th century and has since been a cornerstone of Italian cultural heritage. The renowned poet himself initiated the restoration of the house in 1926, entrusting the task to Antonino Liberi. The restoration aimed to honor his beloved mother, Luisa De Benedictis, who passed away in the house in 1917. Despite some dissatisfaction with the initial restoration, further efforts led by Giancarlo Maroni culminated in 1933, bringing the house to its current state.

The building endured significant damage during World War II bombings, but restoration efforts in 1949 ensured its preservation. The first museum exhibition was curated in 1963, showcasing L'Abruzzo nella vita e nell'opera di G. d'Annunzio. This exhibition evolved over the years, with a new layout introduced in 1993, enhancing the visitor experience.

Exploring the Museum

As you step into the Birthplace of Gabriele D'Annunzio Museum, you're greeted by an ambiance that captures the essence of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum spans nine rooms, each meticulously restored to reflect the period's charm and elegance. Original furniture, family heirlooms, and personal artifacts of D'Annunzio and his family adorn these rooms, offering a glimpse into the poet's early life and inspirations.

The Entrance Hall

The journey begins in the entrance hall, dedicated to D'Annunzio's childhood. Here, visitors can find educational panels with photographs and quotes from his works. Among the notable artifacts are his high school diploma from the Regio Convitto Cicognini in Prato (1881), the decree appointing his father as mayor for the term 1879-1881, and the honorary citizenship certificate from the city of Chieti, awarded during the premiere of La Figlia di Iorio in 1904.

The Living Room - Sala I

Sala I, the living room, showcases two lithographs depicting Vittorio Emanuele II, King of Italy, and Giuseppe Garibaldi in Marsala. These artworks, along with portraits of D'Annunzio's adoptive grandparents and a 19th-century painting of the Rape of Proserpina, offer a visual narrative of the family's history and the era's cultural milieu.

Francesco Paolo's Study - Sala II

Sala II, once the study of Francesco Paolo Rapagnetta-D'Annunzio, features a portrait of a young Francesco Paolo and a collection of intriguing artifacts. These include a 19th-century Japanese plate, two lithographs depicting Torquato Tasso, and various religious prints and paintings. The room exudes an air of intellectual pursuit and artistic appreciation, reflecting the family's cultivated tastes.

The Brothers' Bedroom - Sala III

In Sala III, visitors step into the bedroom shared by Gabriele and his brother Antonio. The room is furnished with 19th-century beds, a mirrored cabinet, and a wooden kneeler. Religious paintings, including depictions of St. Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori and the Immaculate Madonna, adorn the walls, adding a touch of spiritual reverence to the space.

Aunt Marietta's Room - Sala IV

Sala IV, once the room of Aunt Marietta, features an 18th-century wooden chest, a photograph of D'Annunzio's mother, Luisa, and various artworks, including a painting by L. Seccia. This room offers a poignant tribute to family ties and the intimate connections that shaped D'Annunzio's formative years.

The Parents' Bedroom - Sala V

Sala V, the bedroom of D'Annunzio's parents, holds a special place in the museum. Although the bed where D'Annunzio was born was lost in the post-war years, the room still houses numerous treasures. These include an 18th-century watercolor by Michele Cascella, statuettes of St. Anne and the Virgin Mary, and various 19th-century lithographs. The room's original brass brazier and armchair further enhance its historical authenticity.

The Living Room - Sala VI

Sala VI, once a living room, now features educational panels with photographs of significant locations in D'Annunzio's life, such as Francavilla al Mare and the Abbey of San Clemente a Casauria. The room also displays lithographs by Basilio Cascella and a sofa by Franco Summa, blending historical and contemporary artistic expressions.

The Multifunctional Room - Sala VII

Sala VII, whose original purpose remains unknown due to subsequent restorations, now houses displays on Pescara's urban development and D'Annunzio's personal life. Artifacts include items belonging to D'Annunzio, photographs, documents, and a 17th-century painting of Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well.

The Memorial Room - Sala VIII

Sala VIII is dedicated to D'Annunzio's memory, featuring plaster casts of his right hand and face, created by Arrigo Minerbi in 1938. Panels illustrate the tomb of Luisa D'Annunzio and showcase illustrated works by D'Annunzio, offering a reflective space for visitors to honor the poet's legacy.

The War Room - Sala IX

The final room, Sala IX, commemorates D'Annunzio's role in World War I. Educational panels recount his wartime exploits, and displays include two honorary general's uniforms, military caps, and period photographs. This room underscores D'Annunzio's multifaceted persona as both a literary genius and a patriotic soldier.

The Birthplace of Gabriele D'Annunzio Museum is not just a testament to the life of one of Italy's literary giants but also a window into the cultural and historical tapestry of late 19th and early 20th-century Italy. Each room tells a story, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the world that shaped Gabriele D'Annunzio's extraordinary life and works. Whether you're a literature enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this museum promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.