Nautoscopio Installation

Beneath the Sicilian sun, the Nautoscopio rises against the Palermo sky. The Nautoscopio isn’t just a structure. It’s a whimsical dream brought to life by Giuseppe Amato, a Palermo native who returned with a vision. He envisioned a “house” unlike any other, a haven suspended high above the ground. The Nautoscopio debuted as a scale model during Milan Design Week in April 2009. The full-scale version found its home in Palermo’s Foro Italico between June and July 2009. This unconventional dwelling hangs from a metal mast, hoisted up to 15 meters by a hand-cranked winch and ropes. A large opening offers panoramic views, and the entire structure can rotate 360 degrees. Imagine yourself inside, the city unfolding beneath you. The Nautoscopio reaches 25 meters at its peak, its antennas tracing a 40-meter circle. It can accommodate six people, supporting up to 600 kilograms. Sustainability is at its heart. The mast, rotation mechanisms, and base are crafted from carbon steel. The house itself is built with birch aircraft plywood, and the joints are aircraft-grade aluminum. The interior is finished with oak from naturally deceased trees, and a wind turbine provides power. The Nautoscopio stands as a testament to innovation, a blend of art and engineering. It’s a unique experience, a chance to view Palermo from a truly extraordinary perspective.