Fonderia | Aterballetto headquarters

Just a short walk from the historic centre of Reggio Emilia stands the Fonderia – ex Lombardini, a fascinating space where the industrial past meets the excellence of contemporary dance.
Opened in 2004, the venue is the result of the sophisticated architectural restoration of a 1938 foundry, part of the historic Lombardini Motori industrial complex.
The redevelopment project, carried out with funding from the Municipality of Reggio Emilia and the Emilia-Romagna Region, was overseen by engineer Maurizio Zamboni, who successfully brought out the building’s original character by leaving the systems, materials and flooring exposed in authentic industrial style.
Iron and glass dominate the scene, creating a space reminiscent of a grand contemporary cathedral.
The heart of the Foundry is the majestic central nave, 65 metres long, 16 metres wide and almost 13 metres high.
Divided into two areas – the covered square and the large rehearsal hall – it forms the hub of the activities of the Compagnia Aterballetto, one of the most important dance companies on the international stage.
The side wings house rehearsal rooms, dressing rooms and a space dedicated to exhibitions, conferences and cultural events.
On the upper floor are the Foundation’s offices, overlooking the inner courtyard, whilst a striking suspended walkway made of wood and steel connects the two wings, offering a unique and spectacular view of the main hall from above.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Fonderia is its dual nature: bright and welcoming by day, intense and mysterious by night.
Even the names of the rehearsal rooms – Fucina, Fusione and Formatura – reflect the symbolic link between its former industrial function and its new artistic vocation: just as metal was worked and transformed, so too does dance arise from a process of forging, fusing and creating.

From a metalworking workshop to a hub of creativity and innovation, the Fonderia is now an international centre of excellence for the promotion of dance and choreographic art, and a must-see for anyone visiting Reggio Emilia who wishes to discover the city’s more contemporary side.