Italia-Croatia

Introduction

The ARCHAEODIGIT project was created to preserve, interpret, and promote the archaeological heritage of Italy and Croatia in four test areas: archaeological area of Helvia Ricina (Italy), archaeological site of Fulfinum–Mirine (Croatia), archaeological park of Sepino (Italy), and sunken Roman Ships of Trstenik (Croatia).

The name ARCHAEODIGIT itself combines the words “Archaeological” and “Digital” reflecting the project’s mission to connect archaeological heritage with innovative digital technologies in order to make culture more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable.

A Shared Approach to Preserving and Promoting Archaeological Sites

To develop a common methodology for preserving, interpreting and promoting archaeological sites across the Programme Area, the project analysed the current situation, exchanged knowledge and good practices, developed shared methodologies and digital tools, and involved local stakeholders in co-creating more sustainable and inclusive heritage management solutions. The final output achieved is the Common Methodology for Preserving, Interpreting and Promoting Archaeological Sites, focused on the management of archaeological areas and their integration with their touristic ecosystem; the combination of tangible and intangible goods; and the role of digitalisation.

Knowledge Exchange and Best Practices for Archaeological Heritage

To better understand current approaches to archaeological heritage management, encourage the exchange of knowledge and identify successful practices across Europe, the project analysed the existing situation in the pilot areas and collected examples of good practices.

The Existing Situation Analysis (ESA) Report assessed the archaeological, environmental, historical, and touristic management conditions of the project's target sites: the Sepino and Helvia Ricina archaeological areas in Italy, and the Fulfinum-Mirine and Trstenik archaeological areas in Croatia. In parallel, the Good Practices Report collected and analyzed exemplary initiatives in archaeological heritage management, cultural identity valorisation, and digital/immersive technologies across the project's partner territories and the wider EU area.

Developing a Shared Methodology for Archaeological Heritage

To develop a shared approach to preserving, interpreting and promoting archaeological sites, the project brought together partners to define common methods, exchange expertise and identify innovative digital and sustainable solutions. The methodology also provides practical guidance for strengthening cultural identity, improving site management and enhancing visitor experiences. The Common Methodology for Preserving, Interpreting and Promoting Archaeological Sites, represents a shared reference framework for heritage professionals and stakeholders involved in the sustainable management of archaeological sites.

Building Skills for Sustainable Archaeological Tourism

To strengthen the skills and knowledge needed to apply the Common Methodology, the project developed a comprehensive training programme for cultural and tourism operators, young professionals and NEETs. Through masterclasses, study visits, transnational placements, training courses, mentoring activities and an open online course, participants gained practical competences in archaeological heritage management, digital tools, sustainable tourism and visitor engagement. The final output achieved consists of participation in cross-border study visits and work placements, aimed at strengthening skills in archaeological heritage management and tourism, while supporting transnational cooperation and the exchange of good practices.

Transnational Learning to Strenghten Heritage Management Skills

To build the skills needed to apply the ARCHAEODIGIT Common Methodology, the project organised transnational masterclasses and study visits to give participants practical knowledge, share best practices, and strengthen cooperation among heritage and tourism stakeholders.

The Masterclass Training Materials span six key areas: digital marketing strategies for cultural assets, a holistic approach to heritage interpretation that embraces both tangible and intangible values, the economic valorisation of archaeological heritage, urban and territorial planning for archaeological parks, storytelling techniques for enhancing visitor engagement, and an introduction to the ARCHAEODIGIT digital platform.

Building Mentorship Skills for Sustainable Archaeological Tourism

To create the conditions for long-term peer learning and knowledge exchange among cultural and tourism operators, the project developed a joint Train-the-Mentors programme. The activity aimed to equip selected participants with the skills and tools needed to support future mentorship activities, fostering continuous learning and capacity building within the test areas.

The Guidelines for Mentorship Activities provide practical guidance for implementing mentorship programmes in archaeological tourism, offering a reference for anyone looking to set up similar initiatives in the cultural heritage sector. By establishing transferable frameworks and actionable guidance, it provides institutions, networks, and organisations with the means to implement effective mentorship programmes that strengthen operational capacities, foster innovation, and enhance the overall quality and sustainability of heritage tourism experiences.

Communication Materials

In this section, you can explore a collection of our printed materials, including brochures and other resources that provide detailed insights into the project. These materials highlight our commitment to the preservation, interpretation, and valorisation of archaeological heritage, supporting sustainable cultural tourism across the Italy-Croatia cross-border area and its local communities.