The Doge’s Casket in the Villa Manin

The Doge’s Treasure Chest Opens at Villa Manin

Thanks to the commitment of the Vice President and Councillor for Culture of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Villa Manin is reviving its prestigious tradition of hosting international antique exhibitions. This initiative aims to promote the historic complex by bringing the public closer to the world of collecting.

“Lo scrigno del Doge” (The Doge’s Treasure Chest) introduces a fresh format blending cultural insight with entertainment. The program features themed conversations and meetings led by industry experts, dedicated to various collecting sectors. A special guest of honor, Alessandro Rosa—renowned art expert and face of the TV show Cash or Trash—will attend the events.

These events are designed not only for enthusiasts but also for younger generations, offering them a chance to experience the importance of craftsmanship and the value of handmade objects firsthand in a section dedicated to ancient trades.

Event Calendar

The program consists of six events, running from 10:00 AM until sunset on the following dates:

• April 25th

• June 2nd

• September 20th

• November 1st

• December 8th

• January 6th, 2026

Exhibition Categories

Visitors will find a wide array of items for display and sale, including:

• Antiques: Furniture, paintings, and objects from the 18th to the 20th century.

• Collectibles: Porcelain, copperware, bronzes, ceramics, glassware, prints, and rare books.

• Sculpture: Black Forest and Val Gardena wood carvings (late 19th/early 20th century), 19th-century marbles, and bronze sculptures.

• Venetian Excellence: Original early 20th-century Murano glass, 1920s Venetian beads, 19th-century ceramics, historical documents, and silverware.

• Modern Design: Mid-century furniture, iconic lamps, and 20th-century decor.

• Vintage & Memorabilia: Italian advertising material up to the 1970s, tin toys, stamps (philately), and coins (numismatics).

• Luxury & Hobbies: Jewelry, watches, vinyl records, and vintage cameras.

Program for April 25th

The inaugural day will transform the Villa’s park and exedrae into a stage from a bygone era:

• Walk with the Expert (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM): An exceptional opportunity to explore the stands alongside Dr. Alessandro Rosa. Following the guided tour through the market’s curiosities, there will be a convivial aperitif.

• Carriage Rides (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM): Experience the noble atmosphere of the Villa with charming carriage tours available to the public (with a brief break for lunch).

• Ancient Trades – The Organ Builder: A spotlight on artisanal traditions. Discover the secrets of the Organaro (Organ Builder); the cheerful melodies of the barrel organ, typical of Northern European squares, will fill the historic walls.

The Antiques and Collectors’ Market

From 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, approximately 100 selected merchants will showcase rare treasures and unique pieces, ranging from classical antiquities and Venetian craftsmanship to vintage design and timeless passions like vinyl and photography.