Fondazione Santagata in Tunis for two days dedicated to cultural heritage and cooperation between Italy and Tunisia
30 April 2026 – As part of the celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Tunisia, Fondazione Santagata is in Tunis to take part in the “Journées tuniso-italiennes dédiées à la valorisation du patrimoine tunisien”, a two-day exchange focused on bilateral cooperation in the field of cultural heritage.
The initiative is particularly significant also in light of the 60th anniversary of the first Italian archaeological mission in Tunisia, reaffirming the role of scientific and institutional collaboration between the two countries in the protection and enhancement of archaeological heritage.
Organised by the National Heritage Institute of Tunisia, the Embassy of Italy in Tunis, the Italian Cultural Institute, and the ICE Agency Office in Tunis, the event brought together institutions, experts, and stakeholders from both countries active in research, restoration, and heritage management.
Fondazione Santagata’s participation provided an opportunity for dialogue with professionals and institutions engaged in heritage valorisation, fostering the exchange of experiences and a shared reflection on future development perspectives for the sector.
The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation through an integrated approach, combining cultural, scientific, and economic dimensions. In this context, particular attention was given to the role of private actors and to opportunities for collaboration between Italian and Tunisian enterprises.
The programme also included the presentation of ongoing joint archaeological missions and future perspectives for Italy–Tunisia cooperation projects.
The two days confirmed how cultural heritage valorisation is not only a tool for protection, but also a strategic driver for sustainable development and for strengthening international relations, underlining the value of cultural cooperation as a lever for shared growth.