Statue of Lazzaro Spallanzani
Carrara marble statue, created by Guglielmo Fornaciari and Vasco Montecchi, honoring the great 18th-century biologist
Timetable
The artwork is permanently on view
In the heart of Piazza Maggiore stands the statue dedicated to Lazzaro Spallanzani, which was unveiled on 12 November 1888 in the presence of local authorities and members of the national and European scientific community.
On that occasion, the square was renamed in honour of the distinguished biologist and physiologist, a leading figure of the 18th century.
The monument, carved from Carrara marble, was made possible thanks to a public fundraising campaign organised by the citizens of Scandiano under the initiative of the notary Pietro Prampolini.
The sculptor Guglielmo Fornaciari, from Reggio Emilia, created the figure of the scientist, while the frog observed by Spallanzani is the work of Vasco Montecchi, a sculptor from Scandiano.
The statue depicts Spallanzani in an upright pose, dressed as an 18th-century abbot, while observing, through a lens, the blood circulation in a frog mounted on a small stand.
This symbolises his scientific method and his passion for direct observation.
The monument pays tribute to the scientific rigour and curiosity, values that have made Spallanzani a leading figure in the history of biology.
Today, the statue represents a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Scandiano, appreciated both for its artistic value and as a testament to Italy's scientific tradition and the town's civic pride.
Contacts
Piazza Spallanzani - 42019 Scandiano (RE)
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