A groundbreaking mobile cauldron has been conceptualized by the renowned Italian architect Carlo Ratti to complement the torches of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics. This innovative creation has already made appearances before Milan's iconic landmarks, building anticipation for the upcoming games. Designed by Ratti's firm, Carlo Ratti Associati, this compact cauldron is set to be a focal point during approximately 80 public events across various cities, as part of the torch relay. Its development was a collaborative effort with energy company Eni and its subsidiary Versalis, featuring a sophisticated physical vapor deposition (PVD) finish that harmonizes with the aesthetics of the Olympic torches.
The mini cauldron's distinctive structure features slender, intricately shaped blades that encircle a central flame, engineered to produce a Venturi effect. This design ingeniously sculpts the flame into a vertical, stable vortex, optimizing its appearance without increasing fuel usage. Remarkably, this system is designed to maintain full functionality in extreme temperatures, even down to -20 degrees Celsius. Ratti expressed his design philosophy, stating a desire to eliminate anything extraneous, ensuring the flame itself remained the undisputed central element. Alongside this, new visuals highlight the Olympic torches, with their iridescent quality, positioned against the backdrop of Milan's architectural marvels, such as Stefano Boeri's Bosco Verticale and the majestic Duomo cathedral.
The Olympic and Paralympic torches, first revealed in April of the previous year, are a testament to sustainable design, each weighing roughly one kilogram (excluding the fuel source) and crafted from reclaimed materials like aluminum and brass alloys. A significant innovation in Olympic design, these torches are the first to feature a visible flame, thanks to a longitudinal opening along their bodies that allows spectators to observe the burner and its warm, yellow flame. This flame is fueled by bio-LPG, derived from renewable sources such as used cooking oils and agricultural waste. Ratti underscored the complexity of the project, noting that the primary challenge was to design a dynamic phenomenon rather than just an object. He emphasized the necessity of anticipating how fire behaves under various conditions—motion, wind, altitude, and temperature—to ensure impeccable performance when the world's gaze is fixed upon it. The overall endeavor beautifully merges artistic vision with scientific precision, creating symbols that are both functionally robust and deeply meaningful for the global athletic event.
This project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to traditional Olympic symbols, blending advanced engineering with artistic sensitivity. By prioritizing sustainability and visibility, the designs not only celebrate human achievement but also inspire a deeper appreciation for innovative solutions and environmental responsibility, setting a positive precedent for future global events.