Parma: Discover Motorsport Excellence at Dallara Academy
Step inside the landmark institution where racing engineering history meets architectural vision in the hills of the Val Ceno.
The Dallara Academy in Varano de' Melegari offers a rare opportunity to walk through more than 50 years of motorsport engineering, exploring iconic racing cars and the innovation that has shaped disciplines from Formula 3 to IndyCar. This visit is suitable for all ages and requires no prior technical knowledge to enjoy fully. The experience lasts two hours and covers both the architectural landmark and its world-class car collection.
Founded by engineer Giampaolo Dallara, the Academy opened in September 2018 as a centre for education, exhibition, and knowledge-sharing. The building itself, designed by Atelier(s) Alfonso Femia, was recognised as Best Building Under Construction at the ABB Leaf Awards in 2017. Its curved glass wall, three structural cones, and walkable spiral ramp reflect the philosophy that architecture and engineering should serve a shared purpose.
The exhibition ramp connects the two floors of the Academy and presents the cars that defined Dallara's legacy, from the Lamborghini Miura and Fiat X19 to Le Mans prototypes, Formula E machines, and the road-legal Dallara Stradale. The glass wall running the full length of the ramp keeps visitors connected to the surrounding Apennine landscape throughout the visit. Each vehicle on display carries its own story of technical development and competitive history.
Beyond the car collection, the Academy houses a 350-seat auditorium, workshop spaces for school groups, and the MUNER university training area — a facility used by some of Italy's most prestigious engineering programmes. The building functions simultaneously as a public museum, a professional conference venue, and an active academic space. Visitors move through these layers in a single coherent circuit that makes the visit feel cohesive rather than fragmented.
Tour Highlights
Walk the iconic glass spiral ramp displaying Dallara's most celebrated racing and road cars side by side.
Explore an award-winning building designed as a harmonious assembly of architectural and mechanical principles.
Observe IndyCar, Formula E, and Le Mans prototype machinery up close in a dedicated exhibition setting.
Discover the MUNER university area and the 350-seat auditorium used for professional engineering events.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Val Ceno through the full-length curved glass wall integrated into the ramp.
Follow the chronological development of Dallara's engineering output, from early collaborations to the Stradale.
Itinerary
Meet your guide at the entrance of the Dallara Academy in Varano de' Melegari. Receive an introduction to the Academy's founding vision and the architectural concept behind the building.
Explore the ground floor, which contains the public reception zone and workshop spaces designed for educational visits. Your guide will explain how the Academy functions as both a public venue and an active learning environment.
Ascend the signature walkable glass spiral ramp, which hosts the core car exhibition. View historic and contemporary Dallara vehicles including the Lamborghini Miura, Fiat X19, IndyCars, Le Mans prototypes, Formula 3 and Formula E cars, and the Dallara Stradale.
Reach the first floor to see the MUNER university training space and the 350-seat auditorium. Your guide will contextualise the Academy's role in professional motorsport education and its connections to Italian engineering institutions.
Conclude the visit with a summary of the key engineering and design principles that define the Academy. There is time for questions before departing from the venue.
What Is Included
Included
- Guided visit to the Dallara Academy exhibition ramp and car collection
- Access to ground floor reception and educational spaces
- Access to the first floor MUNER area and auditorium
- Professional guide throughout the 2-hour visit
Not Included
- Transport to and from Varano de' Melegari
- Food and beverages
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Reserve Your Place at Dallara Academy
Secure your spot on this guided visit to one of Italy's most distinctive motorsport and engineering landmarks in the Parma province.
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