Italian Archaeology Worldwide
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supports Italian archaeological, anthropological and ethnological missions abroad, spanning chronologically from prehistoric times to medieval times and geographically from the Greco-Roman world to the Near, Middle and Far East, Africa and Latin America.
The historical support of Farnesina for Italian missions abroad is based on the belief that they are not only a testament to Italian excellence but also a powerful tool of public diplomacy. These missions aim to enhance the historical and archaeological heritage of partner countries, promote scientific and socio-cultural cooperation, and maintain relationships founded on dialogue and peace.
Such missions foster intercultural dialogue and development through scientific activities, training of local professionals, and transfer of advanced technologies in heritage restoration and preservation.
MAECI supports these missions through an annual call for proposals managed by the Office VI of the Directorate General for Public Diplomacy and Cultural Affairs (DGDP), responsible for overseeing the application process and related administrative steps.
Requests and reports are submitted via the Archeology website.
The types of support provided by MAECI include:
- Funding (contribution of up to 70% of total expenses)
- Institutional Recognition
In 2023, 279 missions were supported in 71 countries, marking a record number of contributions and institutional recognitions. This achievement underscores Italy’s growing commitment to international research and highlights the excellent collaboration between Italian scholars and their local counterparts.
For further information, please visit the MAECI website.
Archaeological Missions in Mongolia
Nomadic Camps in Mongolia – An Ethnoarchaeological Perspective
Initiated by the Italian Association of Ethnoarchaeology since 2002, with co-financing from MAECI and recently ISMEO, this mission has been led by Francesca Lugli and Graziano Capitini in collaboration with Professor Dulan Sendenjav (National University of Mongolia, University of Arts of Ulaanbaatar), involving students from NUM. The mission focuses on Mongolian nomadism, an ancient culture facing modern challenges. Research has explored various aspects of nomadism, including seasonal movements, livestock management, use of water resources, and the role of dogs. Since 2009, attention has been directed towards winter camps in the regions of Bulgan, Dundgovi, and Arkhangai.
Italian Archaeological Mission in Kharkhorin
The Italian Archaeological Mission in Kharkhorin, active since 2018 under the leadership of Professor Roberta Menegazzi from the Centro Scavi Torino (CRAST), aims to enhance the historical and archaeological heritage of the Kharkhorin area (ancient Karakorum, capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century). Activities include training courses for local museum staff, production of materials for dissemination, and educational and laboratory activities for children and teenagers.
In collaboration with the National University of Mongolia and the Karakorum Museum, the mission has initiated a documentation and survey campaign in the Bayangolyn Valley, an area rich in archaeological evidence located near Kharkhorin.