by InTrieste
On Saturday evening, May 18, 2024, at 6 p.m., the doors of Warehouse 26 will swing open to unveil an extraordinary exhibition tracing the journey of stone from the heart of Europe to the shores of the Mediterranean and beyond. Aptly titled “From Ljubljana to Trieste, the Stone of Aurisina, Karst, and Istria in Italy and around the World,” this showcase will promise to be one of the most extensive and enlightening tributes to the enduring legacy of stone craftsmanship.
Spanning from May 19 to July 14, this exhibition, nestled within the historic confines of Warehouse 26, will invite visitors to embark on a tactile voyage through the annals of stone culture. From its ancient roots to its contemporary significance, patrons will delve into its multifaceted history, exploring its architectural and artistic prowess.
Organized by the esteemed Gruppo Ermada Flavio Vidonis in collaboration with the Municipality of Trieste and bolstered by the generous support of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, this exhibition will stand as a testament to the enduring allure of stone craftsmanship.
Divided into thematic sections across the Nathan and Sbisà halls, Warehouse 26 in Porto Vecchio – Porto Vivo will serve as the perfect backdrop for this captivating narrative. Here, visitors will trace the entrepreneurial journey and life of Gustav Tönnies, a luminary born in 1814 whose indelible mark on European history will be celebrated in this showcase. From his humble beginnings in Stralsund, Germany, to his pioneering ventures across Sweden, Norway, France, Switzerland, and Russia, Tönnies’ legacy will serve as a guiding light through the corridors of time.
But beyond the individual stories will lie a broader narrative – one of economic and social transformation. The exhibition will underscore the pivotal role played by Karst and Istrian stone in shaping the destiny of a region. From the construction of the Vienna – Trieste South Railway to the burgeoning trade routes that made Trieste a maritime powerhouse, stone will become the cornerstone of prosperity, fueling a golden era of economic expansion.
Yet, amidst the grandeur of historical narratives, the exhibition will also highlight the contemporary relevance of stone craftsmanship. As cities like Trieste embrace a sustainable future, the resurgence of Karst stone in architectural restoration projects and modern constructions will signal a return to nature’s timeless embrace.
Beyond the confines of Warehouse 26, a rich tapestry of events will unfold, offering patrons a deeper immersion into the world of stone. From guided tours to scholarly conferences, each event will serve as a testament to the enduring fascination with this age-old material.
As visitors wander through the exhibition halls, they will be reminded of the timeless wisdom embedded in stone – a wisdom that transcends borders and speaks to the essence of human creativity. In an age marked by fleeting trends and ephemeral pursuits, the enduring legacy of stone will stand as a beacon of resilience and continuity.
The exhibition will be open to the public from May 19 to July 14, offering a rare opportunity to unravel the mysteries of stone and uncover the hidden stories etched within its timeless facade.
