Facility costs and closures are a hot topic right now, with many public swimming pools across Italian cities either shut down or outdated. Against this backdrop, Ravenna and Legnano offer two encouraging signs of restart.
Recent days have marked an important moment for Italian swimming facilities. Between Romagna and Lombardy, two key ribbons have been cut for the sport. Ravenna and Legnano have finally reopened their municipal complexes. Both cities now offer residents modern, efficient facilities designed for competitive training and family relaxation alike.
Ravenna: a new era at the ‘Gianni Gambi’ pool
On Saturday, September 12, Ravenna inaugurated the new indoor 25-metre, 10-lane pool at the ‘Gianni Gambi’ municipal facility. The event launched three days of free open-house sessions. Over 1,500 people attended before regular activities officially began.
This work is part of the first phase of the swimming centre’s renovation, which also includes pools for recreational and educational activities. The 25-metre pool is already open for free swimming and lessons. Construction will continue over the coming months to complete the second phase, which will include a 50-metre Olympic pool.
Legnano: the ‘Ferdinando Villa’ centre reopens
On Thursday, September 17, it was Legnano’s turn to celebrate. The city reopened its indoor ‘Ferdinando Villa’ pool, closed since 2019. After extensive renovation work and a brief delay of a few days for final technical adjustments, the facility welcomed back swimmers and sports clubs.
The renovated centre features a 25-metre, 8-lane competition pool. An additional 25-metre pool is dedicated to swimming lessons, beginner training, and water fitness. This, too, marks the completion of a first phase. In the coming months, construction will move outdoors to renovate the summer area and outdoor pool ahead of warmer weather.
A step in the right direction
The reopening of these two swimming centres sends a decisive signal for grassroots sport and public infrastructure. On one hand, it gives two communities back their hubs for wellness and physical activity. On the other, it shows how important it is to find the funds needed to renovate ageing municipal pools. Above all, it highlights the benefits these facilities bring to the wider community.
Image credits: Filippo Mairani/Sempione News; RavennaNotizie
