Temporary exhibition
Heroes. Evolution of a myth
From ancient to contemporary Japan
Fortress of Bard - Bard (AO)


From Thursday 24.07.2025 to Sunday 30.11.2025
The exhibition Heroes. Evolution of a myth. From ancient to contemporary Japanset up in the cellars of the Fortress of Bardoffers an exceptional exploration of the concept of hero across epochs and cultures, with a fascinated look towards the Far East. The exhibition is divided into eight thematic sectionshighlighting the exploits of epic and legendary figures, real-life heroes, warriors e fearless heroinesup to the famous contemporary manga superheroes.
The exhibition route includes 86 worksincluding woodcuts, silk prints, 17th century tapestries and copper engravings, with masterpieces signed by Kuniyoshi, Hokusai e Kunisadalargely from the collection of theMnemosyne Cultural Association and from the Mazzocchi Museum of Oriental Art. Japanese heroism reveals itself to be profoundly different from Mediterranean heroism: not based on personal glory but on the sense of duty, on thehonour and on the just revenge. It goes from ancient legends to modern comic book protagonists, offering an analysis starting from the Mount Olympus to get to the Mount Fujiinvestigating the Deep roots of the Japanese heroic myth.
The exhibition is curated by Paolo Linetti in collaboration with Vidi Cultural. On the opening day, Thursday 24 July, there will be a guided tour with the curator by reservation only.