Museo Hemingway e della Grande Guerra

Discover the Hemingway Museum and the Great War in Bassano del Grappa

Bassano del Grappa, a charming town nestled at the mouth of the Brenta River, holds a significant place in history as a point of resistance during World War I. It was here that the Austro-Hungarian forces repeatedly attempted to break into the Piana Veneta and overwhelm the Italian grid. Today, Bassano del Grappa proudly showcases its historical significance through the Museo Hemingway e della Grande Guerra, a museum dedicated to the American involvement in the war and the literary legacy of Ernest Hemingway.

A Historical Gem

Located just north of the famous wooden bridge designed by Palladio, the museum is housed in the elegant Ca 'Erizzo, a 15th-century villa that has undergone successive restorations and embellishments. This historical gem provides visitors with a unique opportunity to delve into the events of World War I and explore Hemingway's connection to the region.

Unveiling the Past

The Museo Hemingway e della Grande Guerra occupies five spacious rooms on the street level, offering direct access to its extensive collection. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a treasure trove of archival materials, including unpublished texts and photographic images from the American mission during the war. Many of these artifacts were discovered within the villa itself, adding an air of authenticity to the museum's exhibits.

Exploring the Exhibits

The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the war and Hemingway's involvement. The first room focuses on the war that ravaged Europe between 1914 and 1918, shedding light on the lesser-known participation of the United States. Hemingway, who served as a volunteer ambulance driver for the American Red Cross, is among the notable figures highlighted in this section.

Continuing through the exhibition, visitors can delve deeper into Hemingway's connection to the region. At the age of 19, the aspiring writer embarked on a journey to Bassano del Grappa, seeking firsthand experiences and stories to fuel his literary pursuits. Unfortunately, his time on the front lines was cut short when he was gravely injured in Fossalta di Piave. After his recovery, Hemingway returned to the Veneto region and stayed in the very villa that now houses the museum, alongside other literature enthusiasts known as "the poets of Harvard."

A Literary Legacy

The experiences and landscapes of Bassano del Grappa and the war would go on to shape Hemingway's renowned novels, including "A Farewell to Arms," "Across the River and Into the Trees," and the short story "The Strange Country." As you explore the museum, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact this region had on Hemingway's literary career.

Plan Your Visit

The Museo Hemingway e della Grande Guerra is open all year round, welcoming visitors from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. For groups and schools, appointments can be made for visits on weekdays. It's important to note that the park and villa are not accessible to museum visitors.

To reach the museum, take a leisurely 15-minute walk from the renowned Ponte Vecchio, keeping the Brenta River on your left. Look out for the subtle sign that reads "Lungobrenta Ernest Hemingway," indicating that you're nearing the museum. As you approach, you'll catch sight of the grand coat of arms adorning the facade of Villa Ca 'Erizzo, a visual reminder of the historical significance that awaits within.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and literary legacy of Bassano del Grappa by visiting the Museo Hemingway e della Grande Guerra. This captivating museum offers a unique perspective on World War I and the profound impact it had on one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.