Opening of the “Giovanni Longo” International Chess Museum in Marostica

Opening of the “Giovanni Longo” International Chess Museum in Marostica

On Saturday 16 May 2026 the “Giovanni Longo” International Chess Museum officially opened in the rooms of Marostica's Lower Castle (Castello Inferiore). The museum is designed as an international hub for the history, culture and promotion of chess, suitable for both enthusiasts and general visitors.

Collection and exhibition route

The exhibition is divided into four thematic rooms covering the game’s presence across continents. Highlights include:

• historic chessboards and pieces from Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia;
• large-scale installations (some elements up to 3x3 meters);
• collections of chess clocks and practical playing equipment;
• artifacts and curiosities documenting chess in historical and military contexts.

Accessibility and services

The museum offers several accessibility features to broaden participation:

• tactile-maps for visitors with low vision or blindness;
• adjustable lighting levels for visitors with visual impairments;
• informative videos in Italian Sign Language (LIS);
• free audio guides available via QR code in Italian and English;
• a Donor Space to support acquisitions and engage private collectors.

Opening events

The inaugural day included side events promoting chess culture, such as the "Young Talents in Marostica" competition for 14–20 year-olds and a session with FIDE Master Carlo Micheli.

Practical information

• Location: Castello Inferiore, Piazza Castello 1, 36063 Marostica (VI), Italy
• Indicative opening hours: open year-round except 25 December and 1 January; 09:00–13:00 and 14:30–18:30
• Inauguration date: 16 May 2026

Project and funding

The restoration and installation cost about €668,000 in total, including €405,320 from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and the remainder funded by the municipality. The museum aims to be a reference center for chess research and cultural programming with a focus on inclusivity.

Visitor tip: check current opening times and special events directly with the museum before planning your visit.