[International Event Introduction] "80 Years of an Icon" Exhibition Celebrating Vespa's 80th Anniversary Held in Rome

From June 25 to 28, 2026, the exhibition "80 Years of an Icon" was held at the Foro Italico in Rome to commemorate Vespa's 80th anniversary. Curated by Giacomo Brezzell, the exhibition showcases the history and global cultural impact of the Vespa brand through rare photographs and unique models.

Tracing 80 Years of Vespa: A Journey Through History and Culture

Rome, June 22, 2026 – From June 25 to 28, 2026, the exhibition "80 Years of an Icon" was held at the Vespa Village, set up at the Foro Italico in Rome, to celebrate an Italian legend. This exhibition reconstructs 80 years of world history, tracing the evolution of style, culture, and society.

More than just a visual journey of scooter evolution, it highlights how Vespa has become a global symbol of Italian elegance and innovation, and how it has played a leading role in contemporary history. Visitors were able to experience Vespa's multifaceted role, frame by frame, as a means of transport, a tool for freedom, a travel companion, and a statement of style.

From the street corners of European cities to epic cross-continental rallies, from film sets to magazine covers, Vespa stands out as one of the most recognized and influential symbols in contemporary visual culture.

Curator's Vision and Precious Exhibits

Curator Giacomo Brezzell commented on the exhibition's vision: "This is the story of an Italian journey, taken on a Vespa. I immersed myself in the magic of the scooter, which has evolved into a timeless icon, connecting the past with the present. Through extraordinary images discovered in the Piaggio archives and other private collections, I wanted to reveal a journey around the world. I also shot a new series featuring a group of young people from the area around Pisa, near Pontedera. Against the backdrop of sun-drenched coastal roads and classic architecture, the Vespa acts as a visual diary, balancing the spirit of exploration with shared connections and the delicate line with independence."

The exhibition brought together images from the most prestigious Italian and international archives, including the Piaggio Historical Archives (Pontedera), the Publifoto Archive of Intesa Sanpaolo, the ENI Historical Archives, the Pirelli Foundation, and the Gala Salvador Dalí Foundation. Furthermore, institutions such as the CSAC (Communication Studies and Archives Centre of the University of Parma), the Alinari Foundation, the Milan Civic Archives of Photography, the National Museum of Photography in Cinisello Balsamo, and international organizations like Asterias Productions, Magnum Photos, and Studio William Klein also contributed.

Enriching this rich heritage was a curated selection of fine art photography from galleries and private collections worldwide. Masterpieces by legendary photographers resonated seamlessly with Brezzell's own contemporary shots, weaving a collective narrative that spanned continents, visual media, and generations. This stellar lineup included works by renowned photographers such as Paola Agosti, Bruno Barbey, Peter Beard, William Klein, Seydou Keïta, and Malick Sidibé.

In addition to the photographic works, a select display of rare vintage models from the Piaggio Museum and prominent private collections added weight to the exhibition. Vespas that broke speed records, Vespas that embarked on legendary cross-continental journeys, Vespas that starred in film history, and Vespas that left an indelible mark on popular culture were on display. Visitors had the opportunity to admire special editions and works of exceptional historical value, such as the Spanish Vespa 150 S, customized and signed by Salvador Dalí himself. Following its debut in Rome, the exhibition will move to the Piaggio Museum (located in Pontedera, where Vespa is manufactured) and will be open to the public from July 9 to November 7, 2026.

Vespa: https://www.vespa.com

Piaggio Group: https://www.piaggiogroup.com