Brescia Musei records 317k visitors (+79%) in 2023 as Italian Capital of Culture

Brescia and Bergamo shared the title of Italian Capital of Culture in 2023, a recognition aimed at revitalizing the two cities after the pandemic. The museum system managed by Fondazione Brescia Musei recorded over 317,000 visitors, a 79% increase compared to 2022 and surpassing pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The UNESCO site Museo di Santa Giulia – Parco archeologico exceeded 200,000 entries, while the Musei del Castello and Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo attracted 67,000 and 40,000 visitors respectively. Temporary exhibitions drew over 112,000 attendees, bringing the total to over 430,000 guests, incentivized by free admission for residents. The Cinema Nuovo Eden, after renovation, hosted over 1,000 screenings and 61,000 spectators, along with 26 thematic series, meetings with film critics, and workshops. Director Stefano Karadjov, whose contract was extended for five years, credited the success to the quality of permanent and temporary initiatives, including the reinstallation of the Museo del Risorgimento and the Corridoio UNESCO. He described the international engagement as a personal 'Champions League' and thanked the foundation's staff.