Predappio celebrates its birth. A work created and destroyed by its citizens.

A monumental, ephemeral, and participatory work of art, a symbol of contemporary life, will be built this week and destroyed on Sunday to commemorate the centenary of the laying of the foundation stone of Predappio in 1925. This initiative, organized by the Municipality—in collaboration with the Teatro delle Forchette, media partner 140 Il Resto del Carlino, and with the contribution of the Fondazione Cassa dei Risparmi e Serinar di Forlì—celebrates the anniversary. This grandiose artistic project requires the participation of the Predappio community and beyond. This unique experience, led by French artist Olivier Grossetête, will allow participants to erect a monumental, ephemeral cardboard structure in Piazza Garibaldi. "This is a one-of-a-kind event in our area," commented Mayor Roberto Canali. "An unmissable opportunity for our community and for all those who wish to share the thrill of building a replica of a Predappio structure from scratch."

But what monument will the French artist choose? Although not yet confirmed, the cardboard artwork appears to be inspired by the arches of Piazza Garibaldi, and specifically the central door that originally led to the steps of Mussolini's birthplace, which was demolished by the Duce himself, "because it covered the house." The work, to be assembled next Saturday in Piazza Garibaldi, will be 18.50 meters long and 11 meters high. From yesterday until Thursday, July 17, free workshops will be held in the laboratories dedicated to preparing and assembling the cardboard modules, in the Zoli school gym (2:30-6:00 PM and 6:30-10:00 PM); Friday, 9:00-12:30 AM and 2:00-5:30 PM. The workshops are open to everyone, adults and children over 9 (over 170 have already signed up), but registration is required at the Municipal Tourist Information Office (0543.921766; [email protected]). On Saturday (July 19), participants will enter the heart of the collective undertaking, building the structure in Piazza Garibaldi (10am-6pm) without machinery or cranes, using only ropes, tape, and the participants' own strength. "The project," explains Culture Councilor Veronica Bevacqua, "will conclude on Sunday the 20th at 6pm, with the demolition of the structure, untying the tie rods, and trampling on the cardboard, in a huge celebration to all celebrate this work, a symbol of the centenary."

When asked if the celebrations include initiatives commemorating the town's founder, Benito Mussolini, the history of the era, and the future of the former Casa del Fascio, the mayor replied, "We're focusing on the centenary of the laying of the foundation stone, celebrating the town's birth, without delving into the specifics of its historical context, for and with today's citizens. A study conference is scheduled for this fall, led by Professor Ulisse Tramonti." The evenings of Saturday the 19th and Sunday the 20th will feature food and wine and musical events.