What remains of the Giacometti family artists in the Bregaglia Valley?
From 1890 to 1965, the artists of this renowned family created hundreds of works in Stampa and Capolago. Today, most of these works are found elsewhere, serving as ambassadors of the Bregaglia Valley around the world. Here, only a few traces remain, and even those are gradually fading.
The valley’s younger generations have lost almost all direct connection to the artists, who passed away decades ago. Without preserving, sharing, and retelling their stories, future generations of Bregaglia residents may encounter their artists only through exhibitions held in distant cities. And perhaps they will wonder: Why did no one ever tell us about them at home or in school?
"The Centro Giacometti is a place of memory with international significance—a small treasure chest filled with great stories of art, situated within its original landscape. Here, visitors can find answers to their questions."
Marco Giacometti
While the Fondazione Ciäsa Granda and Atelier Giacometti preserve some of the artworks that remain in the valley and occasionally open the Giacometti Studio in Stampa to the public, the Centro Giacometti focuses on documenting and sharing what is invisible, anonymous, and unexpected: photographs, writings, stories, people, places, and both real and painted landscapes. By placing them within the context of the artists’ native valley, the Center seeks to uncover their true motivations and sources of inspiration.
One Mission: Preserving and Enhancing an Intangible Heritage
At first glance, this may seem less tangible or less appealing than displaying original artworks. Yet this is precisely the Giacometti Center’s challenge: to keep memories alive, to tell the story of the Giacomettis and their personalities within the context of the Bregaglia Valley, and to offer visitors immersive experiences and thematic exhibitions.
To achieve this, the Giacometti Center collects information and documents, manages an archive and a library, transcribes and contextualizes historical materials, publishes research, organizes exhibitions, works to preserve the cultural landscape, and promotes public access to culturally significant buildings. The Giacometti Center is therefore not merely an event organizer, but also an archive, a research center, and a hub for cultural interpretation and education.
The main building of the Centro Giacometti
The Centro Giacometti is housed in the birthplace of Giovanni Giacometti (1868–1933), in the main hall of the former Piz Duan Hotel. The building was constructed between 1885 and 1887 by Giovanni’s father, Alberto Giacometti Sr. (1834–1900).
Located along the road that runs through the Bregaglia Valley, the Center stands in the heart of the village of Stampa at Strada Cantonale 119. A free public parking area is located just above the building and includes an electric vehicle charging station. How to get there
The Center’s facilities, equipped with a professional audiovisual system, host a variety of cultural events. During the exhibition season, in summer and autumn, guided tours and exhibition routes begin from the Center. See the exhibition program
The Centro Giacometti also houses a library and archive. The Center is open by appointment for archive and library inquiries (
Please note: The Center does not display original artworks by members of the Giacometti family.
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