Italy's Culture Ministry pushes to preserve Palazzo Labia and Teatro delle Vittorie amid sale controversy

The Italian Ministry of Culture announced its interest in safeguarding two historic properties: Palazzo Labia in Venice and the Teatro delle Vittorie in Rome. A ministerial visit to Palazzo Labia is scheduled for May 21, and the Ministry is evaluating cultural‑value pathways for both sites to avoid privatization.

Public figures have voiced strong opposition. Television host Fiorello condemned the potential sale as “a crime against the history of Italian entertainment,” urging the State to purchase the theatre for about €14 million and lease it to RAI. Rai’s supervisory commission also inspected the theatre, emphasizing its role in collective memory. Heritage group Italia Nostra, via an open letter, called for the cancellation of any sale of Palazzo Labia.

Minister Alessandro Giuli responded that the Ministry will do “everything possible” to protect the assets, signaling a move toward state acquisition or other protective measures.