Future MEAMories: participatory process reimagines Altamura's ethnographic museum
The MEAM – Museo Etnografico dell'Alta Murgia in Altamura, Italy, recently concluded its Future MEAMories project after six months of activities. Celebrations took place from March 20 to March 21, 2026, supported by the Comune di Altamura and Regione Puglia under the Puglia Partecipa initiative. This project involved collaboration with Esperimenti Architettonici APS ETS and the Bari Province's Architects' Association, aiming to connect with local residents, cultural organizations, and youth. The focus was on enhancing accessibility, sustainability, and community participation, while the museum, located in a historic former convent, continues to promote the craftsmanship of Alta Murgia.
Key facts
- Future MEAMories was a six-month participatory process at MEAM – Museo Etnografico dell'Alta Murgia in Altamura.
- The initiative concluded on March 20-21, 2026, with public restitutions and artistic performances.
- It was promoted by the Comune di Altamura with support from Regione Puglia under the Puglia Partecipa program.
- The project was developed with Esperimenti Architettonici APS ETS and the Ordine degli Architetti Pianificatori, Paesaggisti e Conservatori della Provincia di Bari.
- The museum is housed in a 17th-century former convent later used as a prison.
- The participatory process involved residents, professionals, cultural operators, associations, and younger generations.
- The collection's richness was identified as a challenge due to its difficulty in communicating a clear narrative.
- The goal was to rethink the museum's role, languages, and relationship with the public.
Entities
Institutions
- MEAM – Museo Etnografico dell'Alta Murgia
- Comune di Altamura
- Regione Puglia
- Esperimenti Architettonici APS ETS
- Ordine degli Architetti Pianificatori, Paesaggisti e Conservatori della Provincia di Bari
Locations
- Altamura
- Italy
- Alta Murgia
- Puglia
- Bari