Italy creates new underwater cultural heritage superintendency based in Taranto
In Taranto, Italy has launched the Soprintendenza nazionale del patrimonio subacqueo (National Superintendency for Underwater Heritage), with additional centers located in Venice and Naples, aimed at protecting submerged archaeological sites. This move is part of a reform that took effect on February 5, 2020, which reinstated the autonomy of state museums that had been diminished by former minister Alberto Bonisoli's reorganization in 2019. Minister Dario Franceschini not only restored this autonomy but also established ten new superintendencies, including one dedicated to underwater archaeology. Officially created in December 2019, the superintendency began its operations under the leadership of Barbara Davidde, a UNESCO STAB member with extensive experience in underwater missions and recovery projects. It aims to improve the management of underwater cultural heritage.
Key facts
- New Soprintendenza nazionale del patrimonio subacqueo established with headquarters in Taranto and operational centers in Venice and Naples.
- Barbara Davidde appointed as superintendent; she is an underwater archaeologist and UNESCO STAB member.
- The superintendency was created as part of a reform effective February 5, 2020, reversing former minister Alberto Bonisoli's 2019 changes.
- Minister Dario Franceschini restored autonomy to museums and created ten new superintendencies and two new directorates general.
- Davidde has directed underwater missions in Yemen and Oman and worked on Roman wrecks in Naples.
- The superintendency has special autonomy for protection, management, and enhancement of underwater cultural heritage.
- Italy has over 7,000 km of coastline and a rich submerged cultural heritage.
- Franceschini said the appointment will boost research and conservation efforts.
Entities
Artists
- Barbara Davidde
Institutions
- Soprintendenza nazionale del patrimonio subacqueo
- Istituto Centrale per il Restauro
- Istituto Centrale per l'Archeologia
- UNESCO
- Università di Roma TRE
- Artribune
Locations
- Taranto
- Italy
- Venice
- Naples
- Yemen
- Oman
- France
- Libya
- Mar Mediterraneo
- Piazza Garibaldi
- Piazza Municipio