In the heart of the village of Longiano, just a stone’s throw from the historic Petrella Theatre, lies a unique venue dedicated to the great Italian theatrical tradition: the Gallery of Commedia dell’Arte Masks. Housed within the former Convent of San Girolamo, the gallery features a precious collection of thirty-one bronze sculptures celebrating the most famous characters of the Commedia dell’Arte.

The works were created by the Longiano-born artist Domenico Neri, who sought to pay tribute to one of the most representative cultural expressions of Italian theatre. Subsequently donated to the town, the statues now form an original exhibition itinerary that allows visitors to rediscover the figures who, for over two centuries, have brought the stages of Italy and Europe to life.

As you stroll along the gallery corridor, you’ll encounter some of the most beloved characters from the theatrical tradition: the lively Arlecchino, the witty Pulcinella, the elegant Colombina, the stern Dottor Balanzone, the melancholic Pierrot, the brilliant Scapino, Meneghino, Meo Patacca and many other characters who reflect the vices, virtues and traits of Italian society from the Renaissance to the modern era.

Each sculpture captures the character’s personality through expressions, poses and details meticulously modelled in bronze, offering visitors a journey that combines art, history and theatre. The collection pays homage to the Commedia dell’Arte, a theatrical form that emerged in the sixteenth century and revolutionised the way performances were staged, thanks to the actors’ improvisation, the ‘canovacci’ (story outlines) and the stock characters that have become famous throughout the world.

Its proximity to the Petrella Theatre makes the visit all the more evocative, creating an ideal link between the historic theatrical tradition and the contemporary culture that still animates Longiano today.

Entry to the Gallery is free and offers an interesting opportunity to discover one of the village’s most original cultural treasures, which, through the language of sculpture, conveys the timeless charm of the characters that have made Italian theatre famous.