THE ARCA EXHIBITION CENTRE- vercelli

ARCA is the modern exhibition centre that was opened in 2007 in Vercelli with an extraordinary exhibition organised by the Guggenheim Foundation in Venice. Designed by architect Ferdinando Fagnola, it is housed in the former medieval Church of St. Mark. After undergoing several transformations over the centuries, the church has become the subject of important restoration work on the frescoes, and the recovery of the architectural structures, which can be seen during the temporary exhibitions hosted at the ARCA.

The actual exhibition centre consists of an ultra-modern glass and steel structure resting in the central aisle, while the two side aisles are left free to be used for collateral events related to the current exhibitions. This creates a striking contrast between the modern, technological space of ARCA and the medieval atmosphere of the aisles and apse, enhancing the charm of this space.

This innovative parallelepiped has now become one of the city’s symbols, as well as a “stylistic statement” of the desire and ability to combine both the ancient and the contemporary. Indeed, the structure’s crystal vaults allow one to admire the medieval and majestic vaults of the church of St. Mark. In turn, the former church is returning, for the pleasure of Vercelli’s residents and tourists alike, the marvellous hidden 15th-century frescoes unveiled by the young restorers of the Venaria Reale Conservation and Restoration Centre.

ARCA is used to host events and exhibitions. The leading ones include exhibitions in collaboration with the Guggenheim Foundation, “The Renaissance of Gaudenzio Ferrari” and the exhibition dedicated to the Magna Charta and the 800th anniversary of St. Andrew’s Abbey.