Fondazione Santagata is involved in the “Transcultura” programme, an initiative developed by UNESCO and financed by the European Union. The programme aims to foster cultural integration between Cuba, the Caribbean, and the European Union by promoting exchanges and cooperation with European research institutions. Through this initiative, cultural traditions in the Caribbean islands are being leveraged as a driving force for sustainable development.

One of the key projects within the “Transcultura” framework is the transformation of the Santa Clara College into a highly specialized training center for young professionals in restoration and heritage conservation. Thanks to the technical support and complementary funding provided by the Transcultura program, the convent will become a hub of innovation and excellence in the cultural and creative sectors of the Caribbean. This initiative aims to create synergies to strengthen professionalization in these fields across the region.

Work Phases and Activities

As part of this project, Fondazione Santagata has been involved in multiple key activities, including:

  • December 2024 – Interregional Meeting in Cuba: The meeting facilitated dialogue between international partners, fostering knowledge exchange and strategic planning for the Santa Clara College transformation.
    During the last meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed among the partners and Gladys Collazo, Director of Santa Clara College, endorsing the agreement.
  • March 2025 – Meeting in Turin: A follow-up event to reinforce collaboration between European and Caribbean institutions, further advancing the implementation of the training center project.

Partners

  • Universidad de Granada
  • Universidad Pablo de Olavide
  • Fundación Santa María la Real del Patrimonio Histórico
  • Escuela Superior de Conservación y Restauración de Bienes Culturales – ESCRBC
  • Mad’in Europe
  • Institut für Konservierung-Restaurierung of Vienna
  • ICCROM
  • Istituto di Scienze del Patrimonio Culturale – CNR
  • Istituto per l’Arte e il Restauro Palazzo Spinelli
  • Istituto Centrale per l’Archeologia