Maria Montessori is a global icon. She was a trailblazer whose philosophy and activism remain relevant around the world even today. To honor her lifelong work and achievements, Piazza Maria Montessori in Perugia, Italy was dedicated in October 2021 as part of the redevelopment project by architect, sculptor, and former Montessori student, Matteo Ferroni.
The goal of the project was to enhance and internationalize the Montessori legacy of Perugia, beginning with the restoration of the observation classroom created by Montessori in 1950 at Santa Croce School and the creation of a study center and open air classroom named after Maria Montessori. The space was designed as a place for people to meet and play, especially children. As part of Ferroni’s work on the project, he designed and built the first sculptural representation of Montessori in the world. The statue looks over the plaza, serving as a reminder to all who visit of Maria Montessori’s neverending influence.
The Statue
Ferroni’s vision was to create a dynamic sculpture that would be inviting to children, a figure that would literally and figuratively watch over the space. He states:
“Beyond the icon, I designed a monument to play with, to climb on, and to be fond of. Day by day children are exploring mutual aid, charging this monument with meanings and turning it [into] a landmark of the neighborhood.”
The opinions expressed in Montessori Life are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of AMS.
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