culture

Community Engagement Drives MASI Lugano's Cultural Mission Forward

Letizia Ragaglia's upcoming role at MASI Lugano builds on established visitor patterns and access programs that connect residents with the city's cultural venues.

By Lugano Culture Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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Letizia Ragaglia will become director of MASI Lugano in spring 2026, succeeding Tobia Bezzola upon his retirement. The appointment continues the work of maintaining public engagement at the institution's two main sites.

Leadership Change at Established Venues

MASI Lugano runs programs across the modern LAC cultural center and the historic Palazzo Reali. The Palazzo Reali site will close temporarily from October 13 to December 25, 2025, for maintenance work. This period affects one of the two locations while the LAC site remains open for ongoing exhibitions and community visits.

Visitor Patterns and Access Programs

MASI Lugano draws over 100,000 visitors annually and functions as a point of exchange between Northern and Southern Europe. Free admission runs on the first Thursday of each month from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at both venues, giving residents a regular opportunity to attend without cost. These scheduled free hours support consistent community involvement in the museum's offerings.

Complementary Site at Villa Malpensata

MUSEC, the Museum of Cultures located in Villa Malpensata, presents exhibitions focused on ethnic and oriental arts along with photography and contemporary art. It operates Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on weekends from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The separate venue adds further options for local residents exploring cultural collections in Lugano.

Residents can check the first Thursday free-admission window each month or review current hours at the LAC and Villa Malpensata sites before planning visits. Updates on the Palazzo Reali maintenance closure and the spring 2026 leadership transition will appear through official museum channels.

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