The Mediterranean Legacy

Historically at the crossroads of migration and socio-economic challenges, Mediterranean cities have long demonstrated the capacity to transform diversity into a fertile ground for integration and coexistence. Throughout centuries, wars, persecutions, and colonizations have intertwined with narratives of resistance and renewal, shaping a complex socio-cultural fabric. These dynamics have played a crucial role in defining Europe as a space of rights, freedom, and shared heritage.

The Seminar reflects on the Horizon Europe proposal “Mediterranean Legacy: Cities and Migrations”. The project aims to map key locations, stories, and individuals that have fostered social integration across the Mediterranean region. This initiative seeks to develop a participatory model for the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of collective memory in shaping inclusive societies. By leveraging digital tools, sustainability practices, and community engagement, the project envisions a future-oriented approach to heritage valorization. This common legacy is not only a testament to the resilience of Mediterranean cities but also a beacon for future generations, offering innovative pathways for fostering social cohesion and cultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

Renata Salvarani, Full Professor of History of Christianity and Medieval History at the European University of Rome (UER), will explore the transition from historical research to contemporary social innovation. Her presentation will focus on the methodological trajectories that bridge historical narratives with modern societal challenges, emphasizing the relevance of historical studies in fostering social cohesion and innovation.
Silvia Chiodi, Acting Director of the Institute for the European Intellectual Lexicon and History of Ideas (CNR-ILIESI), will address the theme “Cultivating and Preserving Heritage by Overcoming Dissonances.” Her talk will examine strategies for reconciling conflicting historical narratives and cultural interpretations, offering solutions for managing and valorizing shared heritage in diverse and pluralistic societies.
Alfredo Buccaro, Full Professor of Architectural History at DiARC-CIRICE, University of Naples Federico II, will present “From Neapolis to the Post-Unification City: The Evolution of Urban Design Between the Hills and the Gulf.” His lecture will trace the urban development of Naples from its ancient foundations to its post-unification transformation, highlighting the interplay between natural landscapes and architectural planning across centuries.
Immacolata Caruso, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean (CNR-ISMed), will discuss “Mediterranean Pathways: What Role for Migrant Communities?” Her presentation will explore the evolving role of migrant communities in shaping Mediterranean cultural and social landscapes, emphasizing their contribution to the region’s dynamic and interconnected identity.

The session will be introduced and moderated by Giuseppe Pace, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Research on Innovation and Services for Development (CNR-IRISS). With extensive expertise in the fields of mediterranean cities and regional development, he will guide the discussions, providing critical insights and facilitating an interdisciplinary exchange of ideas.