Centro per gli studi sulla tradizione manoscritta di autori moderni e contemporanei

The Centro per gli studi sulla tradizione manoscritta is a research center in Pavia that houses extensive collections of manuscripts, typescripts, letters, and first editions from modern and contemporary Italian authors. The holdings include materials from writers such as Eugenio Montale, Italo Calvino, and other significant figures in Italian literature.

The center was founded in 1969 by Maria Corti, starting with a collection of Montale notebooks as its core. It grew into a major Italian archive and is now housed in the Sforzesco Court in Pavia.

The center holds collections from more than two hundred Italian authors and shows how handwritten work reflects the creative process of modern writers. Visitors can see how writers developed their ideas through drafts and revisions.

Researchers need to arrange visits in advance by email or phone and can access materials during weekday hours. It is important to follow the guidelines for handling materials since they are valuable and fragile.

Beyond manuscripts, the center preserves personal objects like photographs, drawings, furniture, and paintings that belonged to writers. These items offer visitors insight into the personal lives and work spaces of the authors.