Welcome to the Vatican Pavilion at the Venice Biennale of Architecture 2025
Step into a world of architectural innovation and community intelligence at the Vatican Pavilion for the Venice Biennale of Architecture, happening from May to November 2025. Curated by architect and engineer Carlo Ratti, this year’s theme “Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective.” sets the stage for a groundbreaking exploration of the power of architecture in a rapidly changing world.
The Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education is proud to present the “Opera Aperta” (“Open Work”) pavilion, housed in the historic Ex Casa di Santa Maria Ausiliatrice. This marks the third time the Vatican is participating in the Biennale, showcasing a unique blend of global perspectives and community collaboration.
At a recent press conference, Art director Giovanna Zabotti shared insights into the Pavilion’s vision of community intelligence. She emphasized the importance of collective effort in restoring not just a building, but a social connection. The Pavilion serves as a living space, inviting visitors to engage with art, music, and architectural restoration in a truly immersive experience.
Embracing Restoration
The Pavilion’s exhibition space will be veiled, symbolizing a process of healing and transformation. Visitors will witness the restoration of an 18th-century altar, a poignant reminder of the power of renewal and preservation. Music will also play a central role, with young musicians from Venice and beyond adding a vibrant soundtrack to the Pavilion’s narrative.
Meet the Minds Behind the Pavilion
Mexico City’s Tatiana Bilbao Estudio and the MAIO collective are among the studios shaping the Vatican Pavilion, with a strong emphasis on female representation in architecture. The Pavilion’s co-curator Marina Otero Verzier envisions a future where the Church leads the way in architectural innovation and community engagement.
Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, highlighted the Pavilion’s reflection on community intelligence and the importance of working together towards a shared vision. Inspired by Pope Francis’ Encyclical Laudato si’, the Pavilion embodies a spirit of restoration and repair, bridging past and present through architectural excellence.
Join Us in Building a Better Future
Architect Tatiana Bilbao emphasized the Pavilion’s focus on architecture as a process of repair, not just of physical spaces, but of social bonds within the Castello community. The Vatican Pavilion at the Venice Biennale of Architecture 2025 is more than just a showcase of innovative design – it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community.
Come experience “Opera Aperta” and be a part of a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. Let’s build together, with hands, heads, and hearts, creating a world where architecture is not just a structure, but a living, breathing testament to human ingenuity and unity.
