Pinocchio Park in Collodi turns 70 with cultural relaunch

The Pinocchio Park in Collodi, Tuscany, celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2026, coinciding with the bicentenary of Carlo Collodi's birth. Under the new presidency of Giordano Bruno Guerri at the Fondazione Nazionale Carlo Collodi, the park enters a new phase of cultural revival. Opened in 1956, the park was conceived as an artistic journey through the famous fairy tale, with contributions from artists Emilio Greco and Venturino Venturi, and architects Renato Baldi and Lionello De Luigi. Over time, it expanded with the Paese dei Balocchi designed by Pietro Porcinai, featuring sculptures by Pietro Consagra and architecture by Marco Zanuso. Adjacent is the historic Giardino Garzoni, a 16th-century Baroque garden with terraces, water features, and monumental staircases. The complex also includes the Casa delle Farfalle, a butterfly house opened in 2007. Amidst media controversy over the foundation's stability, all 19 employees of Collodi Entertainment and the foundation issued a joint letter on July 13, stating they have found a serene work environment after years of uncertainty, highlighting park maintenance, new hires, and improved visitor experience.