Innovative Thesis on Wreck4All 2.0 project Wins Recognition




The thesis of Sofia Caramia, a graduate in Digital Humanities at the University of Lecce, has been nominated for the 2024 "Research and Innovation Award" by the Municipality of Monteroni. Caramia’s work, titled Participatory Processes for the Enhancement and Bottom-Up Management of Underwater Cultural Heritage: The Wrecks4All 2.0 Project, explores the integration of digital technologies and local community participation in cultural heritage management.

A Forward-Looking Approach

Caramias thesis focuses on the Wrecks4All 2.0 project, part of the Italy-Albania-Montenegro Interreg IPA South-Adriatic 2021-2027 program. It uses advanced digital tools, including augmented and virtual reality, to create immersive experiences of underwater sites, making them accessible to broader audiences. The project emphasizes sustainable tourism, historical preservation, and community involvement. Through its "action plan" for the Cesine site, Caramia demonstrates a scalable model combining preservation and innovation.

Aligning with International Standards

The work aligns with the principles of the 2005 Faro Convention, promoting cultural heritage as a shared resource and a driver of local development. It seeks to position submerged cultural assets as symbols of shared history, fostering a sense of belonging and local identity. The model’s replicability allows for broader applications, potentially creating a network of best practices for cultural heritage management globally.

Impact and Future Prospects

Caramia’s research holds significant implications for the Puglia region, not only in fostering sustainable tourism but also in showcasing Puglia as a pioneer in using digital tools for cultural promotion. The projects integration of community involvement offers economic opportunities while raising awareness about the historical and environmental value of local heritage. The work aspires to gain UNESCO recognition as a best practice in sustainable underwater heritage management.

Endorsements and Excellence

Professor Rita Auriemma, Caramia’s thesis advisor, highlights the academic rigor and interdisciplinary approach of the research. She commends Caramia’s ability to merge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, demonstrating maturity, innovation, and teamwork skills.
This nomination showcases the potential of digital humanities and cultural innovation in preserving and revitalizing submerged cultural heritage while engaging communities and advancing sustainable tourism.

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