Mancinelli Theater
A neoclassical theater hosting prose, dance and concerts, distinguished by ornate decorated boxes, frescoed ceiling and a historic curtain depicting Belisarius freeing Orvieto from Gothic siege.
At a glance
The Mancinelli Theater stands as a cultural venue in Orvieto’s historic center, presenting theatrical programming across multiple art forms. Its elegant neoclassical façade opens onto an interior enriched with decorative detail and historical significance.
History
The theater’s most celebrated feature is its curtain, painted by Cesare Fracassini, which depicts Belisarius and his Byzantine army freeing Orvieto from the Gothic siege of 535 AD—an episode from Procopius of Caesarea’s account in the De Bello Gothico. The historical subject matter earned the curtain its epithet of “historical curtain.” Fracassini also executed the ceiling fresco Dance of the Hours.
What you see
The stalls are ringed by four orders of finely decorated boxes. Above them, Fracassini’s Dance of the Hours occupies the ceiling, accompanied by three muses of the harmonic arch and their respective symbols. The orchestra pit and functional stage command the room. The foyer on the third order displays grotesques evoking the classical Renaissance world and accommodates civil ceremonies, conferences and events.
Cultural significance
The Mancinelli Theater enriches Orvieto’s already substantial collection of monuments and cultural heritage. Its neoclassical architecture and artistic decoration reflect 19th-century aspirations in theatrical design, while Fracassini’s historical curtain adds a layer of local identity and classical learning to the space.
Key facts
- Address: Corso Cavour 122, Orvieto
- Coordinates: 42.71842521749966, 12.112818360328674
- Phone: 0763 340422
- Website: http://www.teatromancinelli.com/
- Ceiling fresco: Dance of the Hours by Cesare Fracassini
- Historic curtain: Belisarius frees Orvieto from Gothic siege (535 AD), also by Fracassini
Practical information
The theater hosts theatrical programming, concerts and prose performances. A café-theater operates within the building. The foyer is available for civil weddings, conferences and private events. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 8:00–15:00.
Getting there
The Mancinelli Theater is located at Corso Cavour 122 in the historic center of Orvieto, Umbria. Consult the official website or phone ahead to confirm current hours and any special programming.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →Historical events at this place (2)
- 2018 Luci a Teatro
- 2022 Don Pasquale
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