Description:
Since 1997 the Imago Mundi Association, a small non-profit organisation, has coordinated Open Monuments (Monumenti Aperti), an annual event which promotes inclusivity and the rediscovery of cultural heritage. The event promotes smaller, lesser-known, heritage sites which may be in need of care, along with those larger, better known sites. Open Monuments likewise raises awareness of the value of heritage in the social and economic development of communities. The Association achieves this by including institutions, schools, associations and enterprises in their activities. The initiative has had impressive results. While Open Monuments was initiated 22 years ago primarily in the city of Cagliari in Sardinia, 130 municipalities now take part in the project. The number of volunteers and sites collaborating with the Association is equally impressive – starting with 500 volunteers and 40 participating cultural sites, Open Monuments now counts on the support of 18,000 volunteers and more than 800 cultural sites which are opened to the public for free. 200 schools now officially participate in the event, ensuring the next generation of enthusiasts are involved in the appreciation of heritage. The economic sustainability of the initiative is secured by funding from the municipalities who take part in the project, the regional government, local businesses and also thanks to private donors.