L’Ecomuseo del Casentino; progetti e pratiche partecipative per la tutela del paesaggio, il riconoscimento e la valorizzazione del patrimonio locale

Abstract

The Ecomuseo del Casentino has been promoted and coordinated by the Unione dei Comuni montani del Casentino (Casentino Union of mountain municipalities). It is formed by a network of exhibition areas, testimonies and cultural experiences spread through the valley and in close relationship with local communities. The different ‘antennas’, which are managed through the cooperation among local governments, associations and private citizens, have distinctive roles and features suggesting different times, spaces and ways in which they can be used. All of them concur to the knowledge, interpretation and promotion of local cultural heritage, with its tangible and intangible expressions, towards a sustainable development. The Ecomuseum is a dynamic process that requires active participation of citizens, who are the main responsible for the care, conservation and transmission of their territories’ ‘common goods’ and values. For this reason every year many different events are organised: happenings, workshops, demonstrations, parties, hospitality and educational activities, together with research and study. The Ecomuseum works to stimulate and renew the sense of belonging of people, acts as a facilitator prefiguring scenarios, promoting initiatives, coagulating the enthusiasms, searching tools and resources. It privileges a participatory approach and attitude.