CAOS – Centro Arti Opificio Siri: The Rebirth of Terni Through Industrial Archaeology and Culture

The CAOS – Centro Arti Opificio Siri in Terni is one of Italy’s most successful and fascinating examples of urban regeneration. Born from the restoration of a former industrial site, the center has transformed a place once devoted to labor into a vibrant multidisciplinary hub, where history, art, science, and performance come together in a unique experience—celebrating the city’s industrial past while looking toward the future.

From Foundry to Culture: The History of the Opificio Siri

The story of CAOS is inseparable from that of Terni, a city long known for its industrial heritage. The center occupies the former Società Altiforni e Acciaierie Terni (SAAT) chemical factory—an important production site that was abandoned after decades of operation. Rather than demolish the site, the municipality launched an ambitious redevelopment project that preserved its imposing brick industrial architecture, large glass windows, and steel beams, transforming them into bright, open spaces for exhibitions and performances. Today, its atmospheric halls and courtyards tell a new story—one of creativity and culture.

A 360-Degree Cultural Experience

CAOS is not just a museum—it is a cultural container offering a wide range of activities and exhibition spaces. Its value lies precisely in the diversity of its offerings, designed to engage an equally diverse audience.

• Archaeological Museum: This museum narrates the ancient history of the Terni area, from prehistory to the Roman period. Visitors can admire remarkable finds, including ceramics, flint and bronze tools, and artifacts from the Umbrian peoples’ daily life. The museum maintains strong ties with the nearby archaeological site of Carsulae, helping visitors better understand the region’s historical importance.
• Aurelio De Felice Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: This section houses a rich permanent collection of 20th-century artworks, with a special focus on sculpture and on artists from Terni, such as Aurelio De Felice himself. The collection explores the relationship between art, industry, and society—a key theme for a city like Terni. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts major temporary exhibitions of international contemporary art.
• Teatro Secci: The center also features a modern, well-equipped theater that hosts a lively program of drama, dance, and music performances. Its presence makes CAOS a major venue for the performing arts and a space for artistic innovation and experimentation.
• Exhibition Spaces and Workshops: CAOS offers flexible, open spaces for temporary exhibitions, events, conferences, and art workshops. More than a venue, it serves as an incubator for creativity—a place where artists can create, collaborate, and share their work with the community.

Visitor Information

CAOS stands as a remarkable example of how industrial heritage can be transformed into a driver of cultural innovation. It is a must-see destination for anyone wishing to explore Terni’s rich heritage in a modern, inspiring atmosphere.

• Address: Viale Luigi Campofregoso, 98, Terni (TR)
• Contacts:
  • Phone: 0744 285514
  • E-mail: [email protected]
  • Website: https://caos.museum/
• Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. / 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
• Tickets:
  • Full price: €5.00

  • Reduced: €3.50

     

Cover photo credits: Comune di Terni