Must-see exhibitions in Parma 2026: Symbolism, Erté and Bertolucci’s Il

Why visit Parma for exhibitions in 2026

Parma's exhibition calendar combines major names, important collections and visitor-focused displays. If you are planning a cultural weekend, here are the three main shows to include, with practical details and tips to make the most of your time.

Symbolism in Italy – Fondazione Magnani-Rocca (Mamiano di Traversetolo)

Period: until 28 June 2026

Venue: Fondazione Magnani-Rocca, Villa dei Capolavori

An exhibition reconstructing the Italian Symbolist scene from the late 19th to early 20th century, organized into thematic rooms that explore landscape, myth and the female figure with a critical approach rather than a purely iconographic survey.

• Highlights: key paintings and a seven-section thematic layout.
• Practical tip: combine the visit with a walk in the Villa gardens to complete the experience.

Erté. Style is everything – Labirinto della Masone (Fontanellato)

Period: until 28 June 2026

Venue: Labirinto della Masone

A focused exhibition on the Art Déco master: scenographies, sketches and illustrations tracing Erté's career and his influence on fashion and stage design. The bamboo labyrinth setting enhances the sense of route and discovery.

• Highlights: original drawings, costumes and stage objects.
• Practical tip: allow at least half a day to see both the interiors and the surrounding park.

Bernardo Bertolucci. Il Novecento – Palazzo del Governatore (Parma city centre)

Period: 27 March – 26 July 2026

Venue: Palazzo del Governatore, Piazza Garibaldi

A tribute to one of Bertolucci's most debated and influential films: the exhibition examines the film's context, production and reception through photographs, set materials and artworks that enter into dialogue with the movie.

• Highlights: archival materials, thematic rooms and paintings conversing with cinema.
• Practical tip: pair the visit with a stroll through Parma’s historic centre to feel the local atmosphere that shaped Bertolucci.

Suggested weekend itinerary

• Day 1: morning at Fondazione Magnani-Rocca; afternoon transfer to Fontanellato for the Labirinto della Masone.
• Day 2: morning in Parma’s historic centre and visit to Palazzo del Governatore; afternoon for smaller galleries or local museums.

Practical information and tips

Always check opening hours and closures on the official websites. For out-of-town transfers (Magnani-Rocca and Labirinto della Masone) a car is convenient or plan transport in advance. Buy tickets online where possible to skip queues and schedule breaks between visits to enjoy the surroundings and regional cuisine.