CAMeC
The History
1879
The girls' primary school
The Centre for Modern and Contemporary Art (CAMeC) in La Spezia is one of the most important cultural institutions in the city, not only for its art collection but also for the historical significance of the building in which it is housed.
The building dates back to 1879 when it was opened as a girls’ primary school.
At the time, La Spezia underwent a period of great change, fuelled by the expansion of the Naval Base, a strategic infrastructure that contributed to a significant increase in population. As the city expanded, new educational facilities were needed and the building that now houses CAMeC was built to meet this growing demand.
1923
The Courthouse
In 1923, the building’s purpose changed, and it became the seat of the Civil and Criminal Court. During the Second World War, it was severely damaged by the bombing in 1943, but it was rebuilt in 1950, following the original design.
from 1998
The creation of the museum
After a long period in state of neglect, the building was chosen as the perfect place to house the city’s growing and prestigious collections of contemporary art. Its transformation into an art museum began with an ambitious renovation and extension project, led by the architect Chiara Bramanti.
The renovation did not only preserve the original structure, but also added new architectural elements, such as the glass lift and the fan-shaped staircase, which are now distinctive symbols of CAMeC.
2004
The inauguration
The museum officially opened its doors in May 2004 and quickly became a vital cultural centre, not only for La Spezia, but for the entire region. CAMeC is made up of three exhibition floors that host both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Among the most remarkable permanent collections are those donated by important patrons such as Cozzani and Bartolini, as well as works selected by the prestigious Premio del Golfo prize, one of the oldest art competitions in Italy.
CAMeC goes beyond the role of a traditional art museum, serving as a centre for cultural production and education. The museum regularly hosts workshops, seminars and art therapy projects that engage a diverse audience. With its dynamic and varied programme, the CAMeC is a lively meeting place for artists, students, families and tourists, enriching the cultural landscape of La Spezia and promoting an atmosphere of international artistic dialogue.
2024
The Museum’s new project
In 2024, thanks to the partnership between the Municipality of La Spezia and the Carispezia Foundation, CAMeC will be at the centre of a major cultural and scientific revitalisation project, with a focus on the redesign of its spaces.
