Calligaris Museum Opens in Manzano, Tracing a Century of Italian Design

The Calligaris Museum has opened in Manzano, Udine, within the company's headquarters, celebrating nearly a century of design history. Founded in 1923 by Antonio Calligaris, the brand started as a small artisan workshop producing the Marocca chair—a wave-shaped wooden seat with straw weaving typical of the region. The museum spans 300 square meters across seven sections, illustrating the evolution of the brand from its origins to its current status as a global furniture leader. Key milestones include the economic boom of the 1950s-60s, which spurred industrial reorganization, and the 1990s expansion into international markets. Today, Calligaris has flagship stores in London, Paris, Munich, and Los Angeles. The company now emphasizes sustainability, using 100% recycled plastics in models like Skin and Liberty chairs, and has optimized production to reduce emissions and waste. The museum briefly closed after its inauguration due to pandemic restrictions but will reopen when government measures allow.