The world’s most famous puppet is celebrating its 142nd anniversary. The first edition of The Adventures of Pinocchiowas published in February 1883, and Florence, the birthplace and final home of Carlo Lorenzini—better known as Collodi—is paying tribute to his beloved creation with a brand-new cultural attraction: the Pinocchio Museum Experience.
Giunti Editore has taken the initiative to “bring Pinocchio home” by establishing an innovative space in Via Ricasoli, designed for families and visitors of all ages. This museum merges classic literature with cutting-edge digital art, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in Pinocchio’s universe. The publishing house has curated educational and interactive sections, including a digital map highlighting places in Florence and beyond where Pinocchio has left a cultural and linguistic imprint. There are also creative workshops inspired by the novel and an exhibition showcasing the work of various artists who have illustrated Pinocchio in prestigious editions over the years. The immersive multimedia section was developed by the creative studio Trama.
The exhibition is structured into interactive environments, bringing to life the illustrations of Tony Wolf and his son, Teo Lupatelli. From Geppetto’s workshop to the belly of the Great Fish, each room is designed to provide a captivating and multisensory experience.
“Pinocchio has been a fundamental part of my long publishing journey—an icon of freedom and imagination that has transcended time and borders, touching the hearts of children worldwide. Now, he returns to Florence, where it all began, to be rediscovered through an unforgettable immersive experience,” said Sergio Giunti, president of the Giunti publishing group.
Alongside the museum, another special tribute to Pinocchio is taking place in Piazza Strozzi at Giunti Odeon. Here, visitors can admire an exhibition by the Genoese artist Fabio De Poli, featuring 24 original and previously unseen illustrations. Through his unique artistic vision, De Poli reinterprets the timeless fairy tale, preserving its magic and highlighting its enduring significance in global culture.
With these new initiatives, Florence reaffirms its role as a guardian of Italian literary heritage, celebrating Pinocchio not just as a fictional character, but as a cultural icon beloved by generations.
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