Once known as Hollywood on the Tiber, Cinecittà Studios in Rome is undergoing a dazzling renaissance, reclaiming its place as the most desirable film destination in Europe. With a legacy that includes cinematic epics like Ben-Hur and collaborations with auteurs like Federico Fellini, Cinecittà is now being meticulously reimagined through a €300 million investment from the European Union’s post-pandemic recovery fund—an initiative that blends the golden age of cinema with the precision of modern innovation.
The six-year development plan underway is more than an expansion—it’s a reinvention. Every new soundstage, every restored corner of the lot speaks to a vision of excellence designed to attract the world’s most discerning filmmakers and studios. The facilities now include one of the world’s largest LED volume stages and a growing portfolio of post-production suites, digital editing bays, and even 35mm and 16mm film processing capabilities. Cinecittà is not just competing with global giants like Studio Babelsberg and Origo Studios—it is setting a new standard in what a European studio can offer.
Recent years have seen a remarkable return of major international productions to the Roman lot. From Angelina Jolie’s Without Blood to Luca Guadagnino’s Queer and Netflix’s lushly styled The Decameron, the studio has become a magnet for prestige projects. Occupancy soared as global filmmakers rediscovered the seductive mix of old-world charm and next-gen efficiency that Cinecittà now provides. Strategic multi-year deals with major production companies like Fremantle and Endemol Shine Italy further solidified its reputation as a dependable, luxurious production hub.
In a historic move, Manuela Cacciamani was appointed CEO in 2024, becoming the first woman to lead the studio in its 80-year history. Her leadership arrives at a pivotal moment. Despite the temporary slowdown caused by Hollywood’s recent strikes and speculation around Italy’s film tax incentives, Cinecittà has emerged unshaken. The return of confidence is evident as Mel Gibson’s The Resurrection of Christ and Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars have both booked the lot for their upcoming productions, with Disney and Universal soon to follow. Under Cacciamani’s direction, the studio is projected to reach a turnover of €30–€35 million by 2026 with a 15% profit margin—an ambitious yet realistic target backed by momentum and intent.
Cinecittà’s resurgence is not just about reclaiming its cinematic prestige—it’s about elevating it. No longer a relic of nostalgia, the studio has evolved into a rare hybrid: a place where the elegance of Italy’s film heritage meets the efficiency and innovation demanded by today’s elite creators. With its rebirth, Cinecittà has positioned itself as the crown jewel of European cinema, ready to roll out its red carpet for the world once again.
