Tatiana Bilbao Estudio: Campo Aperto Transforms MAXXI in Rome

By Alyssa | WhatsOn local events writer Alyssa picks out timely events, local favourites and useful places to eat, stay and explore.

Rome’s reputation might be carved in ancient marble, but this autumn, the city’s contemporary pulse beats strongest in the Flaminio district. As October 2026 ushers in a phenomenal season of culture—from the global cinematic premieres at the 21st Festa del Cinema di Roma at the Auditorium Parco della Musica to Claudio Baglioni's monumental seven-night open-air residency at Villa Borghese's Piazza di Siena—the highly anticipated Tatiana Bilbao Estudio: Campo aperto exhibition takes over MAXXI. Far from a traditional architectural retrospective of scale models behind glass, this ambitious installation physically reimagines the museum's interior, turning it into a vast, interactive public square. It is a bold exploration of how urban spaces can foster community and inclusivity, drawing international design enthusiasts and curious locals to experience a radically different vision of modern city living right in the heart of Zaha Hadid’s iconic curving concrete galleries.

The Philosophy of Connection

Tatiana Bilbao, a visionary Mexican architect renowned for her deeply humanistic approach to urban design, brings a unique perspective to Rome. Her studio focuses on architecture as a fundamental tool for social integration rather than mere aesthetic expression. In Campo aperto, this philosophy is brought to the forefront. The exhibition challenges the sterile, isolating tendencies of modern urban planning by proposing spaces that are inherently porous and accessible to all. Visitors are invited to consider how the built environment can either divide communities or draw them together—a particularly resonant theme as Rome itself engages in massive community activations like the ongoing Tevere Day, which currently sees over 130 events bringing locals together along the banks of the Tiber.

Paper Collages and Walkable Landscapes

Stepping into the exhibition feels less like navigating a museum and more like exploring a living, breathing neighbourhood. The familiar vastness of MAXXI is segmented into intimate, tactile environments that invite you to sit, touch, and linger. Instead of sterile digital renderings, the studio’s signature large-scale hand collages line the walls, adding a deeply human, textured warmth to the space. You can hear the low hum of conversation as families navigate the walkable installations and architecture students debate the spatial concepts. It is an active, sensory experience where the boundaries between the artwork and the observer are deliberately blurred, encouraging you to rethink how you move through everyday spaces. Bilbao's use of recycled materials and analog techniques further emphasizes a move away from the high-tech, detached architectural presentations we often see today.

A Piazza Redefined by Its People

The true magic of this exhibition lies in the crowd it draws and the connections it forces. Because the installation functions as a "campo aperto"—an open field—it relies entirely on the people within it to bring it to life. On a weekend afternoon, the gallery floors are buzzing with a diverse mix of international visitors seeking an alternative to the historic centre and local Romans using the interactive seating areas to simply catch up and chat. It strips away the usual hushed reverence of a contemporary art gallery, replacing it with the vibrant, spontaneous energy of a real outdoor Italian piazza. It is fascinating to watch how visitors unconsciously adopt the space, transforming static installations into dynamic areas for rest, play, and observation.

Know Before You Go

• Timing your visit: Arrive right at opening time on a weekday if you want to photograph the installations without the crowds, or embrace the lively, intended atmosphere on a Sunday afternoon when the communal aspect truly shines.
• Tickets and entry: Standard museum admission covers the exhibition. It is highly recommended to book ahead via the official MAXXI ticketing page to skip the entry queues, especially during the busy autumn cultural festival season.
• Getting there: MAXXI is easily reached by taking the number 2 tram from Piazza del Popolo (just outside the Flaminio metro station) directly to the Apollodoro stop.
• More details: Keep an eye on the official exhibition page for potential late-night openings, guided curatorial walks, or associated architectural talks during its run.

Make a Weekend of It

After immersing yourself in contemporary design at MAXXI, hop on the number 2 tram back towards the historic centre to contrast the modern with the deeply traditional. Rome's culinary scene is a perfect counterpart to a day of cultural exploration. For a seriously good lunch, head to PaStation - Roma Campo Marzio; the pasta is wonderfully fresh, and the lively atmosphere perfectly matches an energetic day out. Alternatively, if you find yourself near the Pantheon and crave handmade pasta prepared right before your eyes, Osteria da Fortunata - Pantheon is an absolute must for an authentic, hearty meal.

If you are looking for a quick, delicious bite between sightseeing stops, pop into Amerina La Pizzetta for some of the best mini-pizzas in the city. For those leaning towards a more historic dining experience, you cannot beat the legendary Ristorante Alfredo alla Scrofa nearby—their signature fettuccine and prosciutto calzone are fantastic, and the historic dining room feels wonderfully glamorous.

Should you decide to wander across the river to enjoy the Tevere Day festivities or simply explore the cobblestones of Trastevere, reserve a table at Rione 13 Ristorante for incredible Roman classics in a cozy, welcoming setting. Later in the evening, treating yourself to a sophisticated drink is essential. Head over to the stunning Vattani Elegant Italian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar to unwind with a masterfully crafted cocktail in a chic environment. To end the day with a more casual but equally charming vibe, wander down to Camillo - a Piazza Navona dal 1890. Grabbing a cocktail or a burger on their lively plaza terrace as the sun goes down is, in my opinion, the ultimate way to wrap up a Roman weekend.

I hope you enjoy experiencing this brilliant modern addition to our ancient city, Alyssa for WhatsOn Rome.