Museum Network: Ecomuseo del Lago d'Orta e Mottarone
Umbrellas of all shapes and sizes in the most charming of exhibitions. Lots to see and learn.
Founded in 1939 by the agronomist Igino Ambrosini, a lover of local history, and rebuilt after the war, the Museo dell’ombrello e del Parasole in Gignese, Vergante, has been in its current location since 1976, in a curious building that reproduces the silhouette of three umbrellas placed side by side. It was built on the initiative of the Italian Umbrella Manufacturers Association and the Friends of the Umbrella Museum, with the contribution and land of the Municipality of Gignese. The museum houses about 1,500 items, including handles, sticks, umbrellas, and parasols, and tells the story of the evolution of the fashions that have influenced the style of these accessories from the 19th century to the present day. It also includes historical pieces, such as Mazzini's famous umbrella, documents, photographs, and tools that bear witness to the world of the umbrella maker. A special section is dedicated to the parasol. There are black lace umbrellas with ivory handles, satin umbrellas, silk umbrellas, lace umbrellas, and needlework umbrellas. A charming and fascinating museum.
Accessibility: accessible by ramp
Schools: yes, with a maximum capacity of 200 people
Credit: Archivio Fotografico Distretto dei Laghi - Lorenzo Pipi
