The Castle of Thiene: Music, theatre, and living memory
In the heart of Veneto, amidst Gothic-Venetian architecture and timeless noble atmospheres, the Castle of Thiene has come alive with captivating cultural events.
An intense programme has reinforced its role as a living historic residence, open to the community and ready to welcome music, theatre, and fresh perspectives on heritage.
The strings of the soul: Virginia Salvatore in concert
During one of the most anticipated evenings of the season, the Grand Atrium of the Castle hosted a concert by harpist Virginia Salvatore. With a programme ranging from Bach to Satie to Nino Rota, the performance highlighted not only the artist's technical skill but also the acoustics of the historic hall.
The audience followed each piece with attentiveness and emotion, in an event promoted by the Società del Quartetto di Vicenza, combining live music with heritage enhancement.
VicenzaReport described the event as "a dialogue between classical repertoires and historic spaces, able to offer the public a timeless experience."
Indeed, it was an evening that showcased how the Dimore Amiche del Veneto network has created and preserved magical places capable of deeply moving those who visit.
Special openings: Rediscovering hidden spaces
Coinciding with the concert, the Castle opened normally inaccessible areas: the Gothic chapel of the Nativity of Mary (known as the ceseta rossa), the ancient kitchens, and the large 16th-century icehouse.
A special opportunity to explore the residence in all its hidden corners, appreciating it not only as a place of art but as an authentic, lived experience.
Shakespeare among the castle rooms: The Merchant of Venice
The Castle of Thiene, already a filming location for the movie "The Merchant of Venice" (2004), starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons, hosted a captivating itinerant performance of the same Shakespearean masterpiece.
Staged by the company L’Archibugio and directed by Giovanni Florio, the actors moved with theatrical naturalness through the Castle’s rooms, guiding the audience on an immersive journey, room by room, like a dream in motion.
“The invitation we received from the artistic direction of the Castle of Thiene gave us the opportunity to rethink our Merchant in an immersive form”, Florio told L’Altra Vicenza.
According to Altovicentinonline, it was “a dive into the city’s roots, able to enchant adults and children, scholars and curious visitors alike.”
The interpretive precision merged with the architectural charm, enhancing the Castle not just as a backdrop, but as the living heart of the narrative.
An event that confirms how theatre can seamlessly blend with the heritage of Veneto’s historic homes.
A heritage that looks to the future
Visiting the Castle of Thiene today means experiencing a story that is renewed with each event: candlelight concerts, immersive theatre performances, and unique experiences like the Italian School of Magic inspired by Harry Potter.
The Castle stands out as one of the most active historic residences in Veneto, opening its doors to an intergenerational, curious, and engaged audience.
Here, culture is never a distant echo: it is a present, living voice ready to engage with today’s visitor.
Explore the Events Calendar
Every event at the Castle of Thiene is an opportunity to see history with new eyes.
Be it a concert, a play, or a simple visit, there’s always something to surprise you.
Take a look at the Events section and stay informed. Not just beauty to admire, but an experience to live.