Palermo's Historic De Magistris-Bellotti Stationery Store Reborn as Officine Bellotti Arts Center

The historic De Magistris-Bellotti stationery and printing shop in Palermo, a landmark for paper and office supplies since the early 20th century, has been transformed into Officine Bellotti, a multidisciplinary arts center. The business closed in 2012 after decades of decline. In 2022, part of the complex opened as Radici, a children's nature museum. Officine Bellotti officially opened in spring 2025 after a restoration led by engineer Giorgio Ferrara and architect Vincenzo Marchese. The space includes exhibition halls, a theater, a café, offices, and a garden. It is run by Manuela Plaja, Lucio Garau, and Rossella Giordano, with initial support from musicologist Gabriele Garilli. The center hosts cultural events, workshops, and exhibitions, including a solo show by Fabio Sciortino in autumn 2025 and a workshop by Polish director Krystian Lupa in September 2025. Funding comes from private savings, a mortgage, and rental income. A future guesthouse is planned.