Celebrating the “ROARING 50S” at the Maranello Museum
Celebrating the “ROARING 50S” at the Maranello Museum
Celebrating the “ROARING 50S” at the Maranello Museum

The Ferrari Museum in Maranello is currently showcasing a captivating exhibition that delves into the rich history of the Modena street circuit, a renowned racing venue that witnessed exhilarating motorsport events from the 1950s until the culmination of the last motorcycle Grand Prix in 1976.

 

During this period, Modena emerged as a vibrant center for motorsport enthusiasts, attracting not only drivers but also artists, actors, and aristocrats captivated by the exclusivity of the cars and the adrenaline-fueled excitement generated by the masterpieces crafted in the pre-named 'Motor Valley.'

 

The Aerautodromo di Modena, inaugurated on May 7, 1950, played a pivotal role in meeting the needs of local car manufacturers seeking a dedicated space for their racing and testing endeavors. Situated between Via Emilia and Strada Formigina, the circuit became a hub for sporting and club events, serving as a testing ground for cars destined for prestigious competitions like Grands Prix, Mille Miglia, and Targa Florio.

 

The area also witnessed the convergence of specialists and enthusiasts, sharing a passion for high-speed motorcycles and cars, complemented by aviation activities.

Through an impressive collection of rare images and previously unreleased archival video content, the exhibition unfolds the narrative of the Modena circuit, affectionately known as 'the little Indianapolis' for its international prominence. The frequent presence of drivers, celebrities, and iconic brands during that era further contributed to its allure.

 

In addition to the vintage content, visitors to the Enzo Ferrari Museum will have the opportunity to marvel at two iconic Ferraris.

 

The 1948 166 MM, a model that underwent testing on the Modena circuit before various races in the 1950s, and the 1957 315 S, which conducted its initial tests on the same track before triumphing in the final Mille Miglia with Piero Taruffi.

For those passionate about this era or feeling a sense of nostalgia, the Ferrari Museum in Maranello extends an invitation to the local community to contribute and share memories, as well as photo and video material from that period.

 

This initiative aims to enlighten new generations about a significant part of the city's past, now transformed into a vast public park named after the legendary Enzo Ferrari himself.

 

The exhibition will run until April 2024, offering a unique journey through the fascinating history of the Modena street circuit.

 

Anyone who wishes to contribute can submit their material to museiferrari@ferrari.com.


We would highly recommend visiting if you are in the area this spring.