The 59th edition of Marmomac came to a close in Verona, leaving behind a powerful message: natural stone is not only a material with millennia of history but also a protagonist in the future of architecture, design, and sustainable building. For four days, the city became the beating heart of a €10-billion market, attracting professionals from across five continents.
The diplomacy of marble
The opening ceremony was more than a symbolic occasion. In the presence of ministers, ambassadors, and international delegations, Marmomac became the stage for new strategic agreements. Thanks to the support of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), two milestone partnerships were signed: the creation of the Italian-Ethiopian Center for Marble and Granite Processing and the Italian-Algerian Committee for Marble and Granite Processing.
Equally historic was the first official meeting of the Natural Stone Strategic Alliance (NSSA). The alliance approved its statute and laid the foundation for global institutional cooperation in the sector. Its mission: to strengthen international ties and promote sustainability through global Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).
Brazil in the spotlight
Among the highlights of this year’s edition was the impressive Brazilian Pavilion. Spanning 4,000 square meters, it combined natural stone with culture and gastronomy, offering visitors an immersive experience.
The lecture “Brazilian Natural Stones: Inspiring Versatility” showcased how more than 1,200 stone varieties are transformed into art, design, and architecture, while over 40 companies gathered in Hall 1, confirming Brazil’s leadership and innovative spirit in the natural stone industry.
Stone as art and narrative
Marmomac once again proved that stone is not just a building material but a medium for creativity.
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At Fabula Litica, the monumental Veiled Maide stood at the center of a steel-and-stone “forest,” blending history and vision.
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The Epiphanies exhibition, curated by Raffaello Galiotto, revealed new approaches to stone processing, turning matter into both functional and poetic objects.
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With Verticalità Modulari, curated by ADI, marble entered the world of modular architecture, combining innovation, sustainability, and design.
Women of marble
The Premio Donna del Marmo 2025 was awarded to architect Cristina Morbi, in recognition of her research on the dialogue between stone, water, and vegetation, and her project Lithic Cords, showcased at the Venice Biennale. The award reaffirmed the crucial role of women in shaping the industry’s present and future.
Creativity and communication celebrated
The exhibition closed with the Best Communicator Awards 2025 | Forbes Selection, honoring excellence in creativity and communication.
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Natural Stone Category: I CONCI
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Technology Category: DDCHEM
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Visions Category: VERZU
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Special Mention: FURRER
In the Forbes Selection, notable figures such as Yuri Ancarani, Paolo Stella, Hannes Peer, and Maurizio Cattelan were recognized for their contribution to the cultural and artistic value of stone.
A new chapter ahead
Marmomac 2025 was not just a trade fair; it was a celebration of stone as a universal language. From strategic agreements to artistic exhibitions and international awards, the event highlighted how natural stone connects tradition and innovation, industry and culture, past and future.
