A piece of Italy’s rich heritage now resides in one of the world’s most iconic monuments. The Successori Adolfo Corsi, one of the oldest and most esteemed marble companies in Carrara, Italy, has donated a precious block of marble for the restoration of a monument within the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. This remarkable initiative is carried out in collaboration with Les Ateliers Saint-Jacques & La Fonderie de Coubertin, leaders in restoring and crafting fine materials. The marble, a Bianco Carrara Campanili, was sourced from the historic Campanili quarry in Colonnata and will serve as the base for a reliquary that houses the Crown of Thorns, believed to be the one worn by Jesus during his Passion.
An Artistic and Spiritual Endeavor
This project seamlessly blends artistic excellence, spirituality, and tradition. Founded in 1811, Successori Adolfo Corsi embodies Italian craftsmanship, merging centuries-old techniques with modern innovation. Over its two-century history, the company has built a global reputation for the unparalleled quality of Carrara marble, exporting not only materials but also a forward-thinking vision of enterprise.
A pivotal moment in the project was the visit by a team of technicians and architects from Les Ateliers Saint-Jacques & La Fonderie de Coubertin to the Campanili quarry. Their firsthand experience of the marble’s fine grain and exceptional hardness—qualities that make it one of the most prized materials from the Apuan Alps—convinced them of its suitability for the reliquary’s restoration. The project was facilitated by Luca Forfori, a long-time collaborator of the Corsi family and an expert in marble trade, who played a crucial role in bridging the Italian and French teams.
Carrara Marble: A Legacy of Excellence
For centuries, Carrara marble has symbolized prestige and durability, featured in timeless masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and countless architectural landmarks. With this donation, Carrara marble takes its place in one of the most revered religious and historical sites in the world. This contribution marks a significant chapter in the restoration of Notre-Dame, which has been undergoing extensive repairs since the devastating fire of 2019.
The inclusion of Italian marble in Notre-Dame underscores the enduring connection between Italian artistry and global heritage. The reliquary’s base, crafted from Bianco Carrara Campanili, is not merely a physical element but a symbol of unity between cultures and traditions, reflecting the shared values of artistic and spiritual excellence.
A Tribute to Collaboration and Tradition
The restoration of Notre-Dame is more than an act of rebuilding; it is a reaffirmation of humanity’s capacity to preserve its most cherished monuments. By contributing this exceptional marble, the Corsi family offers a tribute to collaborative craftsmanship that transcends borders. The gesture highlights how Italy’s rich artisanal traditions continue to leave an indelible mark on global cultural heritage.
Notre-Dame will not only regain its former splendor but also stand as a testament to the enduring bond between Italy’s artistic legacy and Paris’s historic grandeur. This extraordinary act of generosity ensures that the heart of Carrara beats within the sacred walls of one of the world’s most celebrated landmarks—a symbol of resilience, artistry, and shared heritage for generations to come.
Source: www.iltirreno.it