Sophia Loren – Light, Life, Legend

As the quintessential Italian acting icon, Sophia Loren embodies a concept of beauty that extends far beyond the physical. From 27 October 2025, the m.a.x. museo in Chiasso will dedicate an exhibition to the ​‘Sun of Italy’.

Around 200 photographs, mainly vintage shots, will be on display as part of ​‘Sophia Loren: il mito della bellezza disegnato con la luce’ (The Myth of Beauty Drawn with Light), painting an impressive portrait of a woman who has shaped over six decades of film history. On display are works by renowned photographers such as Richard Avedon, Elliott Erwitt, Gianni Berengo Gardin, and Tazio Secchiaroli, who accompanied Loren as her personal photographer for over twenty years. His photographs show her on film sets, in private moments, and always in complete control of her own image – elegant, strong, unmistakable.

The exhibition follows a thematic and chronological path: from her beginnings in Naples to the big film sets of Cinecittà and intimate moments with her family. It quickly becomes clear that beauty and glamour are not all that define Loren. For over 70 years, the legendary actress has been considered the epitome of dignity, character, and Italian passion.

Special emphasis is placed on the connection between Italy and Switzerland: Sophia Loren, born in Rome and raised in Pozzuoli, has lived in Geneva for many years. The exhibition therefore also builds a cultural bridge between the two countries – and celebrates a woman who uniquely combines Italian temperament and Swiss elegance.

Sophia Loren: il mito della bellezza disegnato con la luce

Where: m.a.x. museo, Chiasso
When: 27 October 2025 – 8 March 2026
Admission: CHF 10 (reduced CHF 7), free on the first Sunday of each month
Info: centroculturalechiasso​.ch

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