In collaboration with Video Type

The Bible is not only the most widely distributed sacred text in the world, but also a monumental achievement in the history of publishing, one that has shaped centuries of culture, language, and the art of typography. Since its first appearance in print in the mid-15th century, it has continued to evolve, reflecting the spiritual, political, and technological transformations of the times it has passed through.

From its earliest origins, the formation of biblical texts has been deeply intertwined with a wide range of traditions and interpretations. These writings took shape as a result of the reworking of oral traditions and pre-existing texts, adapted, rewritten, and commented upon, before being received by their respective communities.

What we now refer to as the biblical “canon” is the product of a long process of selection and dialogue with a much broader and more diverse literary landscape—both in form and in theological content. At the heart of modern historical-critical study lies the principle that the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Bible are mutually interdependent for a full understanding, as they share a common path of development. Exploring that shared journey also means shedding new light on the centuries-old relationship between Judaism and Christianity, a relationship that, from its beginnings, is also the story of biblical interpretation.

The Bible, in its present form, is therefore the result of a centuries-long editorial and translational endeavor that involved numerous authors and religious communities.

This exhibition features five extraordinary editions of the Bible, each emblematic of a pivotal moment in the history of the book and of faith. From the first illustrated Italian Bible, printed in 1489, to the smallest Bible ever produced in the 19th century, each of these works exemplifies the ideals of accessibility and technical mastery that have made the Scriptures one of the most significant milestones in publishing history.

Each item on display invites visitors to reflect on the Bible not only as a sacred object but also as a powerful vehicle for cultural dissemination and accessibility, guiding generations and transcending both linguistic and geographical boundaries.

Text by Luca Cena

© Foto R.C.R. Parma. Missale Romanum nouissime impressum: diligentissime emendatum. Venezia, Apud Hyeronymum Scotum, 1558