Photography exhibition on the Saline chemical plant opens in Volterra

June 10, 2025

The photography exhibition titled “Saline di Volterra, a Presidential Inauguration (1959)” was officially opened in Volterra in the presence of Mayor Giacomo Santi. The exhibition is organized by the association Il Chiassino with the support of Altair Chemical, a company belonging to the Novara-based Esseco Group, which took over and revitalized the site in 2011. The exhibition, hosted at the Logge in Piazza dei Priori, is open to the public free of charge until June 21, with visiting hours from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The Saline di Volterra chemical plant is being honored through this initiative, which aims to highlight its historical and cultural significance for the local community. “This factory was not just an industrial facility, but a driving force for the entire area—so much so that it was inaugurated by President of the Republic Giovanni Gronchi. It was a virtuous example of circular economy, making use of local resources such as salt and geothermal energy from Larderello,” said Roberto Vagheggi, General Manager of Esseco Industrial (the industrial division of Esseco Group) and CEO of Altair Chemical. He emphasized how the project “Return to the Origins” continues to be inspired by those practices as a model of sustainability for the company.

Francesco Nulli, CEO of Esseco Group, highlighted the importance of Altair joining the group: “The acquisition of Altair was a key milestone for Esseco, allowing us to expand our product portfolio and bring new technological expertise into the group. This exhibition helps us understand the historical and industrial significance of this site, which remains a vital part of our operations.”

Esseco Group President Piero Nulli expressed pride in the deep connection between the company and the plant: “Saline di Volterra is a fundamental part of our history. This exhibition is a reminder of the value of commitment, dedication, and passion shown by everyone who contributed to the growth of this industrial reality.”

Fabio Giovanetti, President of the association Il Chiassino and creator of the initiative, shared his personal bond with the site: “This exhibition holds deep meaning for me. I spent forty years of my professional life at this plant and had the privilege of meeting extraordinary people who enriched not only my career but my life as well. It is a tribute to them, and to the entire community that helped make Saline di Volterra such an important place.”

The exhibition features historic, often unpublished photographs kindly provided by Enel Green Power Italia and preserved in the Museum of Geothermal Energy in Larderello. It offers a unique opportunity to retrace the industrial history of Volterra and explore the value of the bond between the plant and its surrounding territory. Entry is free and open to all, with the goal of celebrating the past, honoring the present, and looking confidently toward the future of this historic site.