Rome's historic Ponte district is set to become a permanent center for creativity with the inauguration of the Ponte Art and Design District on September 18, 2025. Located between Piazza Navona and Castel Sant'Angelo, this initiative is dedicated to celebrating and fostering contemporary art, design, artisanal craftsmanship, and antiques, transforming the neighborhood into a vibrant cultural artery.
The project, spearheaded by the Roma Faber association and supported by regional and municipal authorities, aims to highlight the district's creative spirit and build a dynamic network. It brings together 28 distinguished Roman entities, including historic artisan workshops, cutting-edge design studios, and established galleries. This collaborative effort draws on Rome's rich artisan heritage, with streets like Via dei Coronari historically known for skilled craftspeople. The Ponte district itself has deep historical roots, with accounts placing the workshop of Renaissance goldsmith and sculptor Benvenuto Cellini near the now pedestrianized Via dei Banchi Nuovi, underscoring the area's enduring connection to artistic mastery.
A significant aspect of this transformation is the permanent pedestrianization of a 200-meter stretch of Via dei Banchi Nuovi, creating an engaging public space designed to foster a closer connection between creators and the public. The district's program includes workshops, masterclasses, talks, and open studio visits. A concentrated schedule from September 18 to 24, 2025, will offer an immersive introduction, with ongoing monthly activities planned until July 2026. These activities will cover disciplines such as ceramics, mosaics, goldsmithing, and restoration, alongside discussions on urban regeneration and innovation.
Patrizia Corvaglia, designer and president of the Roma Faber association, stated, "The district was born from a vision: to transform a historic district of Rome into a place where design, high craftsmanship, art and design innovation dialogue with the urban context, contributing to economic development and the enhancement of the territory's identity." This ambition positions Rome alongside other European cities that have successfully cultivated dedicated design districts, recognizing the power of creative hubs to revitalize urban spaces and celebrate unique cultural identities. The initiative emphasizes showcasing the value and complexity of creative processes, reinforcing the enduring legacy and contemporary relevance of Italian artistry.