Teatro Comunale Carlo Gesualdo

Avellino's Carlo Gesualdo Municipal Theatre was designed by Carlo Aymonino as part of the post-earthquake reconstruction programme. Opened in December 2002 with Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, it has a capacity of about 1,200 and hosts the city's principal performing-arts programme.

Why it matters

The theatre answered the loss of Avellino's former municipal theatre, demolished after the city had gone decades without a dedicated stage. Its construction followed the 1980 earthquake and formed part of the city's reconstruction. Today it is managed by Teatro Pubblico Campano.

What to notice

The theatre stands on Piazza Castello beside the remains of the medieval castle, setting contemporary architecture against the historic centre. The design is by Carlo Aymonino, with Avellinese architect Gianmichele Aurigemma associated with the project. The auditorium seats about 1,200. The venue's programme spans opera, prose theatre, musicals and concerts.

Context and history

The project emerged from the reconstruction effort after the earthquake of 23 November 1980. Work began in 1992 and continued until 2001. The theatre was inaugurated on 21 December 2002 with The Marriage of Figaro, in the presence of President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi. Since then it has served as a principal venue for performance in Avellino and the surrounding province.