International Days of Houses of Memory – Villa De Lollis

The International Days of Houses of Memory in Casalincontrada

Every spring, Villa De Lollis in Casalincontrada, a small town in the province of Chieti, Abruzzo, takes part in the International Days of Houses of Memory. This event, promoted by the National Association of Houses of Memory, invites historic homes of famous European figures to open their doors to the public free of charge. It is a widespread event involving over 150 locations in Italy and more than 400 worldwide, all united by a common goal: to showcase cultural sites linked to the lives and works of writers, artists, and intellectuals.

The home of Cesare De Lollis

The villa is the 19th-century residence associated with the family of Cesare De Lollis (Casalincontrada, 1863 – 1928), one of the most authoritative philologists, literary historians, and critics of his time. A scholar of Romance philology, he taught at the universities of Genoa and Rome and edited the critical edition of Christopher Columbus's writings, reconstructing the diary of his voyages. A contemporary of Gabriele D'Annunzio, De Lollis is remembered today as one of the most significant figures in Abruzzo's culture at the turn of the 20th century.

What to visit

During the event, the Cesare De Lollis Cultural Center welcomes visitors with a journey that blends memory, imagery, and silence:

• the screening of the debut film Cesare de Lollis, uomo di Casalincontrada, uomo del mondo, a short documentary dedicated to the scholar;
• a visit to the permanent exhibition named after him, enriched with new historical artifacts and testimonials;
• a silent reading corner, a quiet space designed for immersing oneself in the scholar's intimate world.

A free cultural event

Tours are conducted as guided visits, and admission is free. The initiative, usually requiring reservation, is one of the few opportunities each year to cross the threshold of the villa and get to know the history of a family and an intellectual who left a deep mark on the history of Casalincontrada and Abruzzo. It is an appointment designed for literature enthusiasts and those wishing to discover the cultural identity of this corner of the Chieti province.