Arco Water Heritage Exhibition at Palazzo Panni Highlights Local Hydraulic History
Until the mid-1800s, Arco had only two fountains. The water needs of the population were mainly supplied by the numerous ditches and small canals that sprang up all around the town. Water was considered an absolute good that required the utmost respect, unlike what happens today.
The history of a community, specifically that of Arco, can also be narrated through the flow, over time, of its waters, rivers, streams, and springs. This is precisely the aim of the project “Sorella Acqua”, an initiative promoted and organized by the Arco Culture Department.
The Exhibition and Its Rooms
Water as a symbol, myth, origin, and inspiration. And above all, as a historical testimony of a distant past. “Sorella Acqua” is primarily an exhibition that will open next Saturday in the magnificent rooms of the Atelier Segantini at Palazzo Panni.
Each location hosting the exhibition will have its specific placement; each room will represent a stage of a well-defined and unified journey. Visitors will be able to explore the origins of water (from springs to fountains, tanks, washhouses, and later to aqueducts), as well as developments in hydraulic mechanical usage (mills, forges, olive presses, sawmills), with particular emphasis on field irrigation.
Themes Covered and Exhibits
One room will be dedicated to hydroelectric power, another to the aquatic environment (reproducing the typical appearance of ditches), and another to the river and fishing. Visitors will be able to view historical documents, ancient artifacts, and evocative representations through videos, as well as maps and period photographs.
Complementing the exhibition, some works in Raku ceramics by artist Guido Omezzolli will also be displayed. “This event —” commented the Culture Councillor Ruggero Morandi — “is definitely the most interesting of the year. We are satisfied with the work carried out, and I must thank the group of people who actively contributed, beginning with Professor Romano Turrini.”
Duration and Related Events
“Sorella Acqua”, which will remain open until May 20, also features a series of events and activities, starting with the “Teacher’s Path” on Thursday, April 5, aimed at outlining the main educational guidelines for visits with students. The series will culminate in a conference on Saturday, May 19, where, besides providing an initial assessment, efforts will also be made to outline a sort of statement of principles.