Taking place at the heart of Italy’s Motor Valley, at the majestic 18th Century Palazzo di Varignana, is the inaugural Concorso d'Eleganza Varignana 1705, an event that will see some of the rarest cars in the world come to Italy for three days between October 13-15.

Each of the 22 cars on display at the event will be handpicked by a panel of experts and exclusively dedicated to vehicles produced before 1973. The focus for each member of the expert jury panel will be to curate a selection of cars that combine originality, historical significance and, of course, beautiful design.

The Italian Motor Valley is an area famed for its association with the motoring industry, with the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati all founded in the region. The stunning surroundings, nestled in the Bolognese hills and stretching across 30 hectares, create the perfect backdrop for an event that is the creation of Carlo Gherardi, founder of Palazzo di Varignana and passionate petrolhead.

Head of the panel is Stefano Pasini, author of over 30 published books on cars. Assisting him are Lorenzo Ramaciotti, previously of Pininfarina Design and juror at Concorso d'Eleganza of Villa d'Este in Lake Como and Adolfo Orsi, an automotive historian and custodian of the Maserati brand. Rounding off the panel are Dr Mercatali and Dr Giorgetti.

Those hoping to have their cars displayed on the palazzo's lawn have until September 29 to apply and more information about the event can be found here.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Concorso d'Eleganza Varignana 1705