100 Years of Puccini: Exhibition in Lucca Chronicles His Final Days

Marking the centenary of Giacomo Puccini's death (Dec. 22, 1858-Nov. 29, 1924), the Museo Puccini in Lucca will host an exhibition from Nov. 24 to Feb. 23, 2025, at the composer's birthplace. Curated by Simonetta Bigongiari, the exhibit narrates Puccini’s final weeks, from his last evening in Viareggio on Nov. 3 to his death in Brussels on Nov. 29.

Through correspondence, testimonies, and funeral accounts, the exhibition recreates those poignant days. Highlights include the composer’s funeral mask, rare documents from the Puccini Archive in Torre del Lago, and materials from prominent institutions like Archivio Storico Ricordi and Yale University. Newspapers, magazines, and a period film provide additional context.

Supported by the City of Lucca, Tuscany Region, and various cultural organizations, the event offers a profound glimpse into the final chapter of Puccini’s life.