by InTrieste
Defying wind and rain, a faithful replica of the legendary Bathyscaphe Trieste was unveiled this week in Piazza Unità d’Italia as part of the Barcolana Village events. The submersible, painstakingly reconstructed for future display at the Diego de Henriquez Museum of War for Peace, will remain on public view until November 9.
The presentation took place under a gazebo featuring multimedia installations and informational panels illustrating the vessel’s design, history, and enduring connection to the city. Visitors can explore the story of the Bathyscaphe Trieste, designed by Swiss explorers Auguste and Jacques Piccard, who pioneered both atmospheric and deep-sea exploration.
The original Trieste achieved worldwide fame in 1960 when it descended to a record-breaking depth of 10,916 meters in the Mariana Trench, marking one of the most remarkable milestones in human exploration. Trieste played a decisive role in the project, largely thanks to Diego de Henriquez, the visionary collector who recognized its scientific and pacifist value. Encouraged by de Henriquez, the Piccards chose Trieste as the base for constructing their new vessel, which was built at the Cantieri Riuniti dell’Adriatico shipyards in Trieste and Monfalcone.
After its exhibition period, the replica will be permanently housed at the Diego de Henriquez Museum, paying tribute to the collector’s lifelong commitment to documenting the tragedies of war while promoting a message of peace.
The inauguration also marked the beginning of a series of talks titled “The Days of the Bathyscaphe Trieste and Its History,” organized by Mare NordEst in collaboration with the Municipality of Trieste. The events, introduced by historian Enrico Halupca, feature films, photographs, and accounts retracing a chapter of scientific and cultural heritage deeply intertwined with the city — and with human curiosity itself.
