Set in the heart of Busto Arsizio, Italy, the Museum of Textiles and Industry of Busto Arsizio (Museo del tessile e della tradizione industriale di Busto Arsizio) offers an intriguing journey through the region's rich industrial heritage. Housed in a magnificent neo-Gothic building that once served as a cotton mill, this museum is a testament to the town's pivotal role in the textile industry.
The story of the Museum of Textiles and Industry of Busto Arsizio begins with the Cotonificio Carlo Ottolini, one of the first industrial establishments in Busto Arsizio. Carlo Ottolini inherited a plot of land in 1876 and initially set up a printing workshop. Over time, he expanded his operations to include spaces for producing the characteristic fabrics of the town, which eventually led to the formation of the Cotonificio Carlo Ottolini. This factory became renowned for its high-quality products and was awarded prestigious accolades at the Palermo and Genoa exhibitions in the early 1890s.
After Carlo Ottolini's death in 1900, his son Ernesto Ottolini took over and constructed the neo-Gothic building that now houses the museum. Designed by architect Camillo Crespi Balbi, this structure is an important example of industrial archaeology, featuring brick facades, ogival windows, anthropomorphic figures, battlements, and towers.
In 1915, the Ottolini family lost control of the company, which was taken over by two former employees, Antonio Tognella and Carlo Schapira, and renamed Cotonificio Bustese. The company flourished between the World Wars, but by the 1950s, it began to decline, culminating in the closure of the Busto Arsizio plant in 1972. The property was subsequently acquired by the municipality in 1980, which demolished some dilapidated buildings and repurposed the remaining structures.
After extensive restoration efforts, the Museum of Textiles and Industry of Busto Arsizio was officially established on January 30, 1997, and opened to the public later that year. The museum spans three floors, each dedicated to different aspects of textile production and the town's industrial history.
On the ground floor, visitors can explore the spinning, weaving, and finishing rooms, which house large looms and the impressive Beetle (a type of calendering machine) from the 1910s-1920s. These exhibits provide insight into the early stages of textile manufacturing, showcasing the machinery and techniques used during the industry's heyday.
The first floor is dedicated to the Jacquard weaving process, a special system for producing decorated fabrics invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1805. This floor also features tools used in the marking, packaging, and shipping of textiles, as well as displays honoring the local industry's pioneers, including Enrico dell'Acqua. The Experience Room, inaugurated in 2002, offers a hands-on educational space where visitors can engage with the various stages of cotton processing, from raw fiber to finished fabric.
The second floor delves into the historical evolution of dyeing and printing processes, featuring blocks from the Zucchi Collection dating from the 18th to 20th centuries. The central hall showcases examples of schirpa, the traditional bridal trousseau of the Alto Milanese region, consisting of beautifully embroidered garments and textiles. This floor also includes documents and tools used in the offices of local textile companies, providing a comprehensive look at the industry's administrative side.
The final room on this floor is dedicated to modern synthetic and artificial fibers used in various industries, including aerospace and fashion. Notable exhibits include the spacesuit of astronaut Franco Malerba, a Formula 1 car seat used by Mika Häkkinen, and a Gattinoni evening gown from the Il Fuoco collection.
Two special sections are housed in the museum's towers: the Menotti-Paracchi photographic archive and the historical archive of the Calzaturificio Borri, a local shoe manufacturer. In 2000, the museum's park was enhanced with a monument celebrating the industrious spirit of Busto Arsizio, created by sculptor Father Nazareno Panzeri. The Industrial Embroidery Room, inaugurated in 2002, showcases machinery and products from local embroidery factories.
The Museum of Textiles and Industry of Busto Arsizio offers guided tours and educational workshops for groups and schools, available by reservation. The museum also features a specialized library with numerous publications on the textile industry, historical documents, and sample collections, providing valuable resources for researchers and enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Museum of Textiles and Industry of Busto Arsizio is not just a repository of artifacts but a vibrant celebration of the town's industrial heritage. Its exhibits and educational programs offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and evolution of textile production, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Busto Arsizio's past.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
