Curtatone is not just a territory, it is a living community, an intertwining of history, culture and traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. Here, every event, every initiative is born for the beating heart of the city: its citizens.
A heritage of history and memory
Curtatone, with its nine hamlets, preserves an extraordinary history, marked by moments of courage and resilience. The title of City, awarded in 2002 by the President of the Republic Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, is the recognition of a solid and deep-rooted identity, while the silver medal for civil merit, awarded in 2007 by President Giorgio Napolitano, testifies to the sacrifice and strength of those who experienced the tragedies of the Second World War.
And even further back in time, the Risorgimento wrote here one of its most glorious pages. The Battle of Curtatone and Montanara in 1848 is not just a historical episode: it is a symbol of passion and determination, the same spirit that animates citizens today. To honor this value, in 2018, the “Curtatone and Montanara” Award was established, intended for those who, in our time, stand out for the defense of the values of freedom, justice and democracy.
The Fair of Grace and the art that unites
The culture in Curtatone is expressed in its most authentic events, such as the Antichissima Fiera delle Grazie, an event that has accompanied the life of the community for centuries. Every year, in mid-August, the Sanctuary of Grace becomes the beating heart of a celebration that intertwines faith, art and tradition. But it is above all the National Meeting of the Madonnari that transforms this festival into something unique in the world. Artists from every corner of the planet come here to donate extraordinary works to the square, creating an open-air museum with their chalks, under the enchanted eyes of thousands of spectators. And precisely in 2025, on the occasion of the 51st anniversary, the competition will be dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and to the Marian Shrines of the world, transforming Grazie into an artistic and spiritual pilgrimage.
Keeping alive the memory of this incredible art form is the Museo dei Madonnari, a place that is not only an exhibition, but also the guardian of Curtatone's cultural identity. Here, between extraordinary works and multimedia itineraries, the past and the present meet to tell a story that belongs to everyone.
The Teatro Verdi: the voice of culture
Curtatone also celebrates culture through music and theater. The Municipal Theater “Giuseppe Verdi” in Buscoldo is the place where art comes to life, where shows of prose, dance and music intertwine to offer authentic emotions to the public. A moment of great prestige is represented by the “" Lirica in Piazza "”, an event that every year gives citizens the emotion of opera under the stars. In 2025, the chosen masterpiece will be 'Rigoletto' by Giuseppe Verdi, a tribute to the great Italian lyrical tradition.
And precisely to give space to young talents, since 1993 the theater has hosted the “Ismaele Voltolini” International Opera Singing Competition, a unique opportunity for new opera voices to emerge, recalling the maestro Ettore Campogalliani and his dedication to music.
A culture that belongs to everyone
In Curtatone, every cultural initiative is designed for citizens. History, traditions, art and music are not simple events, but a precious legacy that is shared with the community and with those who choose to visit these places. Participating in a celebration, admiring a work by a Madonnaro, attending a concert under the stars: all this means being part of a territory that never ceases to tell and to thrill.
Curtatone lives in its culture, and culture lives in its citizens.