Aosta's Megalithic Area Reopens with €12M Museum
On November 11, 2023, the Area megalitica di Saint-Martin-de-Corléans in Aosta, Italy, reopened its doors following extensive renovations costing €12 million, financed by both European and regional funds. This archaeological site, unearthed in 1968, showcases continuous human settlement from the 5th millennium BC to the present, featuring well-preserved megalithic structures and artifacts. The design was spearheaded by architect Massimo Venegoni, with input from Margherita Bert, Acuson, Fallani, Caruso, Péaquin, and Actis Alesina, while Gianfranco Zidda oversaw the scientific coordination. Notable attractions for visitors include an emotional tunnel, a Time Ramp for accessibility, a wooden walkway, and an immersive room featuring a video composed by Giovanni Sollima. Since its reopening, the museum has welcomed approximately 7,000 visitors.
Key facts
- The Area megalitica di Saint-Martin-de-Corléans reopened on November 11, 2023.
- The site was discovered in 1968 during construction near the church of San Martino.
- The renovation cost approximately €12 million from European and regional funds.
- The museum shows continuous habitation from the 5th millennium BC to the modern era.
- Exhibition design by Massimo Venegoni and Dedalo Architettura e immagine of Turin.
- Multimedia and lighting by Acuson of Turin; fittings by Fallani of Venice.
- Scientific coordination by Gianfranco Zidda.
- The site includes anthropomorphic stelae, human footprints from 2400-2200 BC, and a gold-leaf glass cup.
- The museum has received about 7,000 visitors since opening.
- The area features 500 LED lighting fixtures simulating day and night cycles.
Entities
Artists
- Giovanni Sollima
Institutions
- Dedalo Architettura e immagine
- Acuson
- Fallani
- Caruso
- Péaquin
- Actis Alesina
- Soprintendenza regionale della Valle d'Aosta
- Regione autonoma Valle d'Aosta
- Artribune
Locations
- Aosta
- Italy
- Valle d'Aosta
- Turin
- Venice
- Saint-Martin-de-Corléans
- chiesa di San Martino