| Authors | Organisations | Keywords |
|---|---|---|
| Nicolò Scialpi, Chiara Zen, Francesco Garbasi | University of Ferrara, ArcheoVea Impresa culturale | Archaeology, Management of Cultural Heritage, Ice Age, Education |
A new chapter begins for Grotta di Fumane, one of Europe’s most important prehistoric sites. Since November 2023, the Municipality of Fumane has entrusted its management to Archeovea Impresa Culturale. Established in 2018, this company currently manages 16 cultural sites, both public and private (including museums, archaeological parks, and historic palaces). The company was founded with the aim of enhancing cultural sector professionals, with a particular focus on archaeological heritage, creating virtuous economic circuits centered around the cultural and museum assets in the areas where it operates.
Grotta di Fumane is reopening to the public with regular hours from March to October, every weekend and public holiday, offering a wide range of educational programs for schools of all levels. The continuous opening of the site, along with the presence of specialized archaeologists trained in scientific communication and the specific topics that the Cave allows to explore, will ensure maximum visibility for the research work promoted each year by the University of Ferrara as they investigate the archaeological deposit.
Additionally, ArcheoVea has taken the lead in research at Grotta di Fumane by co-financing a doctoral scholarship, already activated, aimed at developing a data collection protocol related to the types of audiences that visit this archaeological site. The goal is to identify methodological practices that can be applied in any context where the combination of research and development is truly put at the service of the territory. The research also benefits from the cross-disciplinary contamination between social sciences and public archaeology, aimed at developing a working method that values the concept of a "heritage community" or legacy, as expressed by the Faro Convention, recently ratified by the Italian government.
The convergence of intentions, scientific expertise, and technical skills introduced by the involved parties will allow testing of a model that is hoped to be replicated in other areas of Italy, where precious archaeological assets often struggle to gain adequate visibility and, even more so, to fulfill their role as cultural resources for the community.
Drawing inspiration from experimental archaeology and the concept of learning by doing, ArcheoVea has developed a series of educational proposals for schools, which have the dual purpose of instilling concepts in participating students while fostering their imagination and curiosity, helping them develop what is known as "informed imagination."
The convergence of intentions, scientific expertise, and technical skills introduced by the involved parties will allow testing of a model that is hoped to be replicated in other areas of Italy, where precious archaeological assets often struggle to gain adequate visibility and, even more so, to fulfill their role as cultural resources for the community.
Archaeologists in Action!
Grotta di Fumane is an open laboratory for everyone, offering proposals for young and old, teachers, or simply those who want to take a journey back in time among Neanderthal and Sapiens men and women. The Cave is an active archaeological site. During the summer, archaeologists from the University of Ferrara are engaged in excavation and laboratory campaigns where visitors can learn about the latest research results in real-time. This is a unique opportunity to experience a guided tour accompanied by an archaeologist who personally narrates the progress of the research and excavation. Additionally, a calendar of cultural events and special visits has been planned throughout the season to attract different types of audiences, expanding the range of visitors.
Discovering Grotta di Fumane
Grotta di Fumane offers guided tours and workshops for schools of all levels, either at the archaeological site or directly in the schools. As an active site, the educational workshops at Grotta di Fumane are designed to provide a strongly scientific experience, both in terms of materials used and execution techniques. Furthermore, like a real prehistoric tribe, the laboratory experience can not only deepen historical and cultural content but also serve as an opportunity for students to interact and strengthen their spirit of cooperation and mutual support. Through the guided tour of Grotta di Fumane, students can discover or delve into our past and origins. They can also learn about the archaeological and natural riches of the site and the interest shown by both Neanderthals and Homo sapiens in the Valpolicella area during prehistory.
Networking with the Cave
One of Grotta di Fumane's goals is to create a network among museums and cultural entities: a proposal for collaboration and network creation that aims to promote and enhance a shared approach to the public’s enjoyment of the cultural heritage of the territory. Various strategies have been implemented, including mutual promotion through advertising material, reciprocal discounts, or collaboration on joint projects and events.
Always Connected
Today, communication is increasingly taking on a digital dimension, making it crucial to be present and engage with the public through social media channels. Grotta di Fumane is active on Facebook and Instagram, essential platforms for telling stories and connecting not only with users but also for sharing content among network partners. Finally, involving the broad web audience is also key to disseminating information and updating the public on the latest archaeological discoveries... evolution continues! Scientific and educational content: Grotta di Fumane’s editorial plan includes many new features for research enthusiasts as well as for the younger audience... evolution continues!
