FAI Spring Days – Former Fratelli Gagliardi Factory
Special opening of the former textile mill in Oleggio, exploring the world of corsets and swimwear
About FAI Spring Days Oleggio
A forgotten factory reopens for a weekend
The FAI Spring Days are the most anticipated cultural event in Italy for heritage lovers: two days when buildings, historic homes, archives, and sites usually closed to the public are opened thanks to FAI volunteers. In Oleggio, a bustling town in the Province of Novara in eastern Piedmont, the absolute star is the former Fratelli Gagliardi factory at Via Gaggiolo 6: a former textile mill that preserves the local industrial and labor history.
The story of the Gagliardi family
The Gagliardi family's history is synonymous with the textile manufacturing of Oleggio from the 18th to the 20th century. The current facility, built in 1890, was cutting-edge: it was here, at the end of the 19th century, that the first turbine for electricity production was installed to power the looms. Production shifted from fustian to corsets and bodices, leading to a major turning point after World War II: under the leadership of Dr. Gian Luigi Gagliardi, the company became the largest Italian manufacturer of swimwear, employing thousands of women from Oleggio and the surrounding area.
Dramatized tours: "From Corsets to Costumes"
The 2026 itinerary, titled "From Corsets to Costumes", retraces this industrial adventure through dramatized tours led by student guides from the Verjus Middle School in Oleggio. These trained students accompany visitors through the former factory, giving voice to a chapter of local history that shaped the town's identity.
An event promoted by FAI volunteers
The opening is organized by the FAI Ticino and FAI Ticino Ovest Group – Novara Delegation, in collaboration with the municipalities of Oleggio and Cameri. The 2026 edition is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of FAI, the Foundation that has been working since 1975 to protect and promote Italy's landscape and artistic heritage. Visiting the former Gagliardi factory is not just a cultural opportunity, but a tangible gesture of support for the Foundation's mission.
- Location: Former Fratelli Gagliardi Factory, Via Gaggiolo 6, Oleggio (NO)
- Tours: Dramatized, led by student guides from the Verjus school
- Contribution: Suggested voluntary donation of €3 to support FAI
FAI Spring Days Oleggio — edition 2026
2026 Edition Program
The opening of the former Fratelli Gagliardi factory in Oleggio took place on Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22, 2026, as part of the 34th edition of the FAI Spring Days, dedicated to the Foundation's 50th anniversary.
The dramatized tours, titled "From Corsets to Costumes", were led by student guides from the Verjus Middle School in Oleggio, organized by the FAI Ticino and FAI Ticino Ovest Group – Novara Delegation.
Tour Times
- Morning: 10:00 – 11:00 – 11:45
- Afternoon: 14:30 – 15:30 – 16:30 – 17:30
Contribution
Admission with a suggested voluntary donation of €3 to support the FAI mission.
Programme FAI Spring Days Oleggio 2026
Dramatized tours "From Corsets to Costumes"
Opening of the former Fratelli Gagliardi factory (Via Gaggiolo 6) with tours led by student guides from the Verjus school in Oleggio.
- Morning: 10:00 – 11:00 – 11:45
- Afternoon: 14:30 – 15:30 – 16:30 – 17:30
Itinerary dedicated to the textile history of the Gagliardi family, from 19th-century fustian to 20th-century swimwear.
Highlights FAI Spring Days Oleggio 2026
Prices FAI Spring Days Oleggio 2026
Practical information — FAI Spring Days Oleggio
How to get there
Oleggio is located in the province of Novara and is well-connected. By car, take the A4 motorway (Novara exit) or the A26; Milan Malpensa Airport is just a few kilometers away. By train, the Oleggio station is served by the Novara–Domodossola line. The former Fratelli Gagliardi factory is located at Via Gaggiolo 6.
Hours and Access
Open during the FAI Spring Days weekend with scheduled tours: morning at 10:00, 11:00, and 11:45; afternoon at 14:30, 15:30, 16:30, and 17:30. Admission with a suggested voluntary donation of €3 to FAI.
Tips
We recommend arriving early as spots for each tour are limited. For a list of open sites and any updates, please check the official website www.giornatefai.it.
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Where does it take place — FAI Spring Days Oleggio
Ex Azienda Fratelli Gagliardi
Via Gaggiolo 6, 28047 Oleggio