What Was Ferrara Like 50 Years Ago? The City Through the Lens of Paolo Monti

Walking through the historic center of Ferrara means stepping into an architectural heritage that tells centuries of stories. But what did the city look like 50 years ago?
The exhibition Paolo Monti and Ferrara: 50 Years Since the Photographic Survey, hosted at the Galleria del Carbone, offers a unique opportunity to rediscover the city’s urban soul through the lens of one of Italy’s greatest post-war photographers.

A Timeless City: Ferrara Through Monti’s Lens

In 1974, commissioned by the Emilia-Romagna Region and the Municipality of Ferrara, Paolo Monti undertook an extensive photographic campaign to document the city’s historic center. Over 3,000 photographs captured Ferrara as never seen before, thanks to a rare clearing of the streets from cars. For a moment, the city revealed itself in its pure architectural beauty, uncovering details and perspectives that have since changed or disappeared.

An Unmissable Experience: What Makes This Exhibition Unique?

This exhibition is a rare opportunity to see Ferrara as it was half a century ago, through a curated selection of photographs showcasing monuments, piazzas, and hidden corners of extraordinary charm. More than just a tribute to Monti’s artistry, the show invites reflection on urban evolution and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The immersive display, enriched with large-format prints and archival materials, captures the full visual impact of Monti’s meticulous documentation. It also highlights the photographer’s deep connection with Ferrara — a city he visited many times between the 1960s and 1980s, portraying both its iconic landmarks and the quiet intimacy of everyday life.

Adding another layer to the experience is the open-air extension of the exhibition: a citywide itinerary that leads visitors to the exact spots Monti captured, transforming Ferrara’s streets into a living photographic gallery.

After visiting the show, your journey through time can continue among Ferrara’s streets and palaces. Monti’s photographs become a unique guide to rediscover the city with fresh eyes — from the medieval charm of the Jewish Ghetto to the Renaissance elegance of Corso Ercole I d’Este, every corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered.

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^{Fotografia di Paolo Monti prese da www.filomagazine.it}