A Renaissance palace housing a curated collection of vintage automobiles and motorcycles, set within the historic Malvasia Castle of Panzano.
At a glance
The Malvasia Castle contains the Righini Collection, a carefully assembled group of rare and historically significant vehicles displayed on the ground floor. The collection includes some unique pieces important to automotive history, though the portion open to the public remains modest in scale. Access requires advance arrangement and guided visits.
History
Monsignor Innocenzo oversaw the castle’s transformation from a medieval fortified structure into a Renaissance residence and agricultural complex. The owner’s residence along the Torbido canal was completed first, followed by a tower—likely the southern tower—finished in 1612.
The Malvasia family held the property until 1867, when Marc’Antonio’s death ended their tenure. The estate subsequently passed through several families: the Frosinis (via marriage), the Larco di Genova, and the Negrottos. Giovanni Lombardini acquired it before Giovanni Orlandini took ownership in 1917. Decades of neglect and Second World War damage followed. Current ownership has restored the internal courtyards and arrested further deterioration.
What you see
The palace retains feudal typological characteristics while displaying Renaissance features introduced during Monsignor Innocenzo’s renovations. The Torbido canal, essential to the original layout, remains a defining element of the complex’s form. Recent restoration has returned the courtyards to their historical appearance.
Cultural significance
The Righini Collection represents an important automotive archive, preserving rare vehicles and motorcycles that document industrial and technological heritage. The building itself exemplifies the transition from medieval military architecture to early modern rural enterprise, reflecting the shift of urban wealth toward countryside agricultural investment.
Key facts
- Address: Via N. Bixio, 12, 41013 Panzano
- Coordinates: 44.62088354581512, 11.04099690914154
- Website: https://www.righiniauto.it/
- Phone: 051 733309
Practical information
The collection has no fixed opening hours. Visits are by guided tour only and require advance arrangement. Contact the venue directly to schedule access and confirm availability.
Getting there
The castle is located in Panzano in Emilia-Romagna. Use the coordinates or address above with GPS navigation. For exact directions and transport options, contact the venue by phone or check their website.
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