MAXXI's 'Vitalità dell’architettura italiana' sparks controversy over lack of critical narrative

The exhibition titled 'Vitalità dell’architettura italiana 1946-2026' at MAXXI in Rome has drawn criticism from architects Luigi Prestinenza Puglisi and Valerio Paolo Mosco. Puglisi contends that the exhibition lacks depth, presenting a disjointed narrative and merely showcasing items from storage. It includes eight digital totems featuring contemporary architects but overlooks significant figures such as Casamonti and De Lucchi. In an open letter to MAXXI president Maria Elena Bruni and architecture director Lorenza Baroncelli, Mosco critiques the exhibition's lack of critical analysis, the absence of a catalog, and suggests implementing term limits for curators. Both critics emphasize the exhibition's neglect of vital discussions within Italian architecture. Curated by Pippo Ciorra and Elena Tinacci, the exhibition commenced in June 2026.