Romeo e Giulietta costumes by Danilo Donati on show in Florence

To mark the centenary of Franco Zeffirelli (Florence, 1923 – Rome, 2019), Florence is hosting an exhibition dedicated to his most famous film, Romeo and Juliet. Titled 'Romeo e Giulietta, i costumi da Oscar di Danilo Donati', the show runs until 18 February 2024 at the Fondazione Zeffirelli. It features over 30 original costumes designed by Danilo Donati (Luzzara, 1926 – Rome, 2001), worn during filming and produced by Casa d’Arte Cerratelli. Donati, alongside Piero Tosi, is considered one of the 20th century's most renowned costume designers. His work on Romeo and Juliet earned him the Nastro d’Argento, a BAFTA, and an Oscar in 1968. The exhibition includes iconic dresses worn by Olivia Hussey (Juliet) and Leonard Whiting (Romeo), as well as costumes for the nurse, parents, and other characters. Curated by Fondazione Zeffirelli president Pippo Zeffirelli and Fondazione Cerratelli director Diego Fiorini, the display highlights Donati's blend of late medieval style with modern materials. It offers a journey through Shakespeare's tragic romance and medieval aesthetics.