The Umberto Panini Collection

Just outside Modena, in a simple hall on a farmstead of a biological cheese farm, lies one of the most exclusive private collections of classic Maseratis and motorsport memorabilia. The Umberto Panini Collection offers visitors a unique opportunity to admire some of the most iconic and rare vehicles from the world of motorsport and sports cars. The collection serves as an unofficial Maserati museum, as the Maserati factory itself does not have its own museum where classic Maseratis can be viewed.

A Unique Collection of Maseratis

The Umberto Panini Collection is widely considered to be the largest and most exclusive Maserati collection in the world. The collection includes nearly all of the classic series models, complemented by several rare prototypes and historical race cars. Among these are legendary vehicles such as the Maserati 250F, the Maserati 420M Eldorado, and the famous Maserati Tipo 63, better known as the Maserati Birdcage.

The Maserati Birdcage is one of the most significant sports cars of the 1960s. The car earned its “Birdcage” nickname due to its unique construction, made up of 200 separate tubular sections that together form a strong yet lightweight frame.

The history of the Umberto Panini Collection

Maserati enthusiasts feared the worst, worried that this unique collection would be dispersed. One of those concerned Maserati fans was the very wealthy Umberto Panini, who amassed his fortune with the famous Panini football stickers. Umberto Panini struck a deal with the auction house and Mr. De Tomaso, purchasing all the cars in one go. As Panini did not have enough space for all the vehicles, he decided to build a barn on the land of his farm, where he also produces Grano Padano cheese as a hobby. This hobby has since grown into a thriving business, and his Hombre brand has become widely recognized in the world of cheese.

The Panini Collection houses 23 Maseratis, along with several complete and partial study models on the upper floor. Almost all of the cars are in top condition and still regularly leave the barn to participate in national and international Concours d’Elegance events. This can be seen in the many trophies and plaques displayed throughout the private museum.

On the upper floor, there is an extensive collection of motors, scooters, and motorcycles, including several rare specimens. On the exterior of the barn, you can also find around a dozen historic tractors. Although these tractors are sheltered under a roof, they seem to be slowly succumbing to time, evidenced by the many rusty spots. The Umberto Panini Collection is a remarkable testament not only to Maserati’s legacy but also to the passion and dedication of a man who not only loves cars but also preserves history for future generations.

Visiting the Panini Collection

What’s special about the collection is that it is free to visit, but you must indicate your preferred visiting time through the website. You can also drop by spontaneously, as the hall is often open. For more information about the CUP Collezione Umberto Panini, visit the museum’s website: www.paninimotormuseum.it.

The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. On Saturdays, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. The Umberto Panini Collection is closed on Sundays.

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