Project Final Conference: Shaping the Future of Cultural Heritage
15 October 2026 | Loggia dei Mercanti, Ancona, Italy
After years of cross-border cooperation, research and experimentation, ARCHAEODIGIT is reaching its final milestone with a Final Conference dedicated to the future of archaeological and cultural heritage in the Adriatic-Ionian area.
The conference, titled “Invisible Archaeology, Digital Narratives, and Cultural Landscapes: Tourist Decompression Strategies and the Rediscovery of Tangible and Intangible Heritage in the Adriatic-Ionian Area,” will bring together representatives of public institutions, universities and research organisations, cultural heritage and archaeological institutions, tourism stakeholders and technical and cultural professionals from Italy and Croatia.
The event will provide an opportunity to reflect on the results of ARCHAEODIGIT and discuss how digital innovation, cultural heritage protection and sustainable tourism development can work together to create new ways of discovering, interpreting and experiencing archaeological sites.
Exploring new perspectives for archaeological heritage
The first thematic session, “Phygital Archaeology and Reconstruction of Ancient Landscapes,” will focus on the role of digital technologies in the conservation and public enjoyment of archaeological heritage.
Experts and project partners will discuss the potential of digitalisation, immersive and interactive solutions, gaming and gamification to support archaeological heritage management and make sites more accessible and engaging for different audiences. Experiences from the ARCHAEODIGIT pilot areas will provide concrete examples of how digital tools can contribute to new forms of cultural engagement.
Connecting archaeology, culture and sustainable tourism
The second session, “Decompression of Tourist Routes and Cultural Innovation,” will bring together perspectives from the fields of archaeology, tourism, territorial development and cultural innovation.
The discussion will explore how Digital Cultural Paths and territorial networks can contribute to diversifying tourism flows and supporting deseasonalisation, while creating connections between archaeological heritage and other cultural and intangible assets.
Among the themes addressed will be the role of historical theatres, audiovisual media, agrifood heritage and the Mediterranean Diet in developing new cultural itineraries and strengthening the attractiveness of territories beyond traditional tourism routes.
From project results to a shared vision
The Final Conference will conclude with the official signing of the ARCHAEODIGIT Joint Strategy by the project partnership and associates, marking an important step towards continued cooperation and participatory governance for the sustainable enhancement of heritage in the Adriatic-Ionian area.
More than a conclusion, the event will be an opportunity to bring together the knowledge, experiences and partnerships developed throughout the project and look towards their future application.
📅 15 October 2026
📍 Loggia dei Mercanti, Ancona, Italy
Consult the full Final Conference programme and list of speakers for further details.
We look forward to welcoming you to Ancona for the final milestone of ARCHAEODIGIT!
