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You may have seen them on your holiday - colourful umbrellas hanging in the streets of Italian cities. These are so-called. Umbrella Sky Project, an art project born in 2012 in the Portuguese town of Águeda. The original idea was to create shade in the streets for residents and tourists, while adding playfulness and creativity to the public space.

Umbrella Sky in Italy

In Italy, the concept has caught on and has appeared in several cities where it serves not only as an artistic element but also as part of festivals, markets and other cultural events. The most famous locations include:

  • Catania (Sicily) - colourful umbrellas are suspended over the streets of the historic centre, especially in the university quarter and around Via Etnea. They make the city even more lively and attract tourists looking for photogenic spots.
  • Ferrara (Emilia-Romagna) - The historic city of Ferrara hosts this installation especially during the summer months, when it enlivens the streets and gives them a cheerful appearance.
  • Gubbio (Umbria) - In this medieval town, umbrellas are part of summer cultural events and also serve as decorations during the Christmas market.
  • Bari (Puglia) - in the historic centre of Bari, umbrellas appear mainly in the smaller streets where they create an interesting visual play of colour and light.
  • Milan (Lombardy) - in the Brera district or in the Navigli area, this concept appears in temporary exhibitions or as part of design festivals.

Catania- umbrela sky

Umbrellas hanging in the streets of Catania

Symbolism and effect of the Umbrella Sky

Umbrellas are not just an aesthetic element - they attract attention, increase tourist attraction and support local traders as people spend more time in these streets. The colours have a positive effect on mood and add playfulness to public spaces.

 

Although the original idea originated in Portugal, today the Umbrella Sky Project is firmly rooted and increasingly popular in Italy. Each city adapts it to its own style and local events, offering a slightly different spectacle each time.

 

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