Luigi illica, born in Castell’arquato on May 9, 1857, journalist, playwright and good verser, was one of the exponents of the Milanese Scapigliatura current, as well as one of the main librettisti of the post-Verdian period.
He worked for Giacomo Puccini, Alfredo Catalani, Umberto Giordano and Pietro Mascagni.
His booklets are a faithful mirror of the literary culture of the time and the currents that travelled through it.
During his work was important the meeting with Giuseppe Giacosa, because with his collaboration Illica wrote his famous works: La Bohéme, Tosca, Madama Butterfly (all for Puccini).
Located near to Illica's House, the Museum is divided in 4 sections:
1 - The life: in which there are the most important events of his private, public and artistic life.
2 - The works: here are exposed the written texts for the theatres, some with Illica's notes, and the original version of the Opera booklets created by him and some original sheets music.
3 - The Witnesses: letters, photographies, stage costumes, his piano and his typewriter
4- The Materials: it's possibile to see and consult the books, sheets music, CD, engravings and audiovisuals.
