The catalogue of the exhibition EST. Italian Stories of Travels, Cities, and Architectures is edited by Luca Molinari and Federica Rasenti and published by Forma Edizioni.
The book presents thematic insights from architects and researchers, as well as the voices of Italian travelers which explored the eastern countries during the 70s and 80s, such as Tiziano Terzani and Franco Raggi.
EST. Storie italiane di viaggi, città e architetture
It describes the experiences of Italian travellers and architects whose unique ability in interpreting these places, their identity and culture, have generated narratives to provide previously unknown visions of the countries that welcomed them. The aim of the book is to analyse territories that have undergone profound social, political and urban transformations over the past 30 years, in comparison to a complex post-idealogical period that demanded singular visions and solutions. Six internationally famous Italian experts – RPBW – Renzo Piano Building Workshop, AMDL CIRCLE, Studio Fuksas, Archea Associati, MC A – Mario Cucinella Architects e Piuarch – will show their works, and in particular, projects closely focussed on Russia, China, Albania, Georgia and Vietnam. Each country and its narrative is compared to its collective historical imaginary, presented through invaluable material from the Cini Foundation archives and contemporary Italian architecture, providing unexpected encounters that engage the visitor and emphasise the significance of Italy’s contribution through the centuries.