Polistena Inaugurates New Palazzo della Cultura
The Municipality of Polistena has officially opened the Palazzo della Cultura, a new public center for art, reading, and innovation. According to municipal reports, the facility converts a former noble residence into a community hub featuring a library and AR/VR technology, with Massimo Bray attending as the guest of honor.
What facilities are included in the Palazzo della Cultura?
The center provides a library and dedicated spaces for artistic and cultural activities. According to the municipality, the building also includes galleries, exhibition spaces, multimedia environments, and a specialized AR/VR room.
These installations are designed to merge memory and knowledge with new technologies. The project transforms a building that previously housed nobles and podestà into a “house of the people” available to all citizens.
Who participated in the inauguration events?
Massimo Bray, Director of the Istituto della Enciclopedia Italiana Treccani and former Minister of Cultural Heritage, Activities and Tourism, attended the 12:00 p.m. ceremony as the guest of honor. Local institutions were also present.
The opening program included a 5:00 p.m. seminar on Calabria’s seismic risk and the 1783 earthquakes, led by Prof. Gino Mirocle Crisci of Unical – Fondazione Cultura e Innovazione. At 6:30 p.m., an “Art Walking” tour took place in collaboration with the association Un Posto di Calabria, curated by art historian Laura Mileto and the Kiwi Cooperativa Impresa Sociale.
This walking tour highlighted local sites including Casa Jerace, which houses art donated by the Jerace heirs. The day concluded with the activation of perimeter lighting at 8:30 p.m. and a 9:00 p.m. theater-song performance titled “1861 – La brutale verità” by the CarMa company.
How will the building operate moving forward?
The municipality stated that the building’s operational capacity will be gradual. In the coming days, several important offices may be transferred into the palace.
This move is intended to ensure the building remains active daily. Such a transition could increase the frequency with which citizens utilize the available cultural opportunities.
Why is this development significant for the community?
According to the municipality, the opening is a step toward strengthening Polistena’s cultural identity. It aims to valorize collective artistic heritage by focusing on knowledge and participation.
The initiative is positioned as a reference point for schools, associations, and citizens who view culture as a driver for social and civil growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the AR/VR room?
It is designed to combine memory and knowledge with new technologies.
Who led the seminar on seismic risk?
The seminar was led by Prof. Gino Mirocle Crisci of Unical – Fondazione Cultura e Innovazione.
Will the building be used for administrative purposes?
Yes, the municipality plans to transfer some important offices to the palace to ensure it remains a lively space every day.
How do you think the integration of VR technology changes the way a community interacts with its local history?