"Fabio Model" Model Exchange Fair (Seraphicum)

A historic exchange fair in the heart of EUR

The "Fabio Model" Model Exchange Fair is one of the most popular periodic events for modelers and collectors in Rome and the Lazio region. It takes place in the hall of the Casa per Ferie Seraphicum, at Via del Serafico 1, in the EUR district, just a short walk from the Laurentina metro terminus. It is not a commercial trade show with large, elaborate stands, but a genuine exchange fair in the truest sense: side-by-side tables, private exhibitors and small retailers, direct negotiations, and the real chance to find that missing piece for your collection.

What you will find on the tables

The selection is intentionally diverse, covering all branches of static and dynamic modeling. Those who arrive early in the morning usually find the best selection, as the rarest items often change hands within the first few hours.

• Railway modeling: electric trains in H0, N, and 0 scales, steam and electric locomotives, passenger coaches, freight cars, tracks, transformers, and spare parts.
• Die-cast cars: collectible model cars, 1:43 and 1:18 scale models, vintage vehicles, and racing cars.
• Militaria and military vehicles: assembly kits, tanks, historical vehicles, and documentary material.
• Figurines and dioramas: toy soldiers, painted characters, scenic elements, and landscaping materials.
• Modeling accessories: paints, tools, decals, lighting, electronic and digital components.
• Operating layouts: functional systems brought by exhibitors and set in motion throughout the day.

A community gathering

Beyond buying and selling, the Seraphicum fair serves as a meeting point for the Roman modeling community. Enthusiasts exchange tips on weathering techniques, digital control units, and the restoration of vintage Rivarossi, Lima, or Märklin equipment; clubs and hobby groups from Lazio take the opportunity to reconnect and showcase their projects. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for newcomers: the operating layouts invariably attract children, who get to see trains moving in real life rather than just behind a display case.

A periodic, not annual, event

The unique feature of this event is its frequency: it is not a one-off, but a series of editions spread throughout the year, typically in spring, autumn, and before the Christmas holidays. The December edition is traditionally the most popular, as it coincides with the gift-giving season and the time when many families set up their model railways under the tree. Dates are announced periodically by the organizer, Fabio Model Roma, and promoted via the national calendar of exchange fairs and specialized railway press.

Rome, EUR, and modeling

The EUR district is a perfect logistical choice for an event of this kind: spacious, well-served by the metro, and easily accessible by car from the Grande Raccordo Anulare, it offers parking and facilities that historic venues in Rome's city center could not provide. The Casa per Ferie Seraphicum also features an on-site bar and restaurant, allowing exhibitors to stay all day and visitors to turn their visit into a full morning outing. In the Lazio region, the "Fabio Model" fair stands alongside other Roman collecting events, yet maintains its own distinct, artisanal character that is closer to the true enthusiast public.