ASI 60th: twin commemorations at Bardolino and the Vittoriale

On 16 May 2026 the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (ASI) celebrates its 60th anniversary with events held at two emblematic Lake Garda locations: Bardolino (Verona) and the Vittoriale degli Italiani in Gardone Riviera (Brescia). The venues highlight the link between monumental heritage and the culture of historic motoring in Italy.

The morning program takes place in Bardolino, the town where ASI was formally established in 1966. In Piazza Matteotti the national anthem will be performed by the local philharmonic band, followed by the opening of a modelling exhibition at Palazzo Gelmetti. Scheduled activities include a display of sixty historic vehicles, a conference on the evolution of automotive style, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque marking ASI’s foundation.

In the afternoon the celebrations move to the Vittoriale degli Italiani, Gabriele d’Annunzio’s historic house-museum and an iconic site for 20th-century art and aesthetics. There the exhibition “Futurism and the Myth of Speed” will open, accompanied by a theatrical performance exploring the relationship between humans and the automobile, drawing on Futurist and modern art themes.

Highlights and why to visit

• Piazza Matteotti, Bardolino: institutional ceremonies, modelling exhibition, and historic vehicle display.
• Palazzo Gelmetti: venue for the modelling exhibition and historical materials related to ASI.
• Vittoriale degli Italiani: thematic exhibition and performance linking monument, literature and motoring history.

Practical information

• Date: 16 May 2026.
• Venues: Bardolino (Piazza Matteotti, Palazzo Gelmetti) and Vittoriale degli Italiani, Gardone Riviera.
• Timing: morning events in Bardolino, afternoon events at the Vittoriale (detailed schedule to be released by organisers).
• Accessibility: check for access rules or required bookings for Vittoriale visits and the exhibitions; up-to-date information is available from local tourist offices or official ASI channels.

The celebrations offer a chance for visitors interested in automotive history, Garda’s monumental heritage and the interplay between culture, aesthetics and technology in the 20th century. For full program details and participation instructions, consult the organisers’ official communication channels or the tourist information offices of Bardolino and Gardone Riviera.