Cultural and Digital Heritage: Agreement Signed Between the Ministry of Culture, the National Research Council (CNR), and E-RIHS ERIC


An agreement has been signed between the Ministry of Culture, the National Research Council (CNR), and E-RIHS ERIC. The three-year agreement focuses on interoperability, artificial intelligence, training, and open science to strengthen the protection and promotion of Italian and European cultural heritage.

The Directorate-General for Digitization and Communication of the Ministry of Culture, the National Research Council – Institute of Cultural Heritage Sciences (CNR ISPC), and E-RIHS ERIC (European Research Infrastructure for Heritage Science) have signed a strategic agreement aimed at strengthening collaboration in the fields of research, digitization, and the promotion of cultural heritage. The agreement aims to develop a joint program dedicated to enhancing innovative tools, infrastructure, and methodologies, fostering cooperation among public institutions, research bodies, and European scientific infrastructures. The initiative is part of national and European strategies for the digital transition of the cultural sector and represents an important step toward greater integration between scientific research and heritage management.

One of the main objectives concernsthe interoperability of digital systems. The Ministry of Culture’s platforms will be progressively integrated with the digital infrastructures of research laboratories, enabling the sharing and coordinated use of scientific data related to the monitoring, diagnostics, conservation, and restoration of cultural heritage. Particular attention will be given to the development of tools basedon artificial intelligence. Advanced digital tools and AI-based solutions will be created to better leverage research data. Intuitive interfaces capable of helping experts monitor the condition of a statue or painting in real time. The agreement also aims to strengthen Italy’s role in major European programs dedicated to cultural heritage, fostering coordinated participation in international projects and calls for proposals, and increasing funding opportunities and expertise in the cultural heritage sector.

E-RIHS.it Campaign – MOLAB by the CNR ISPC XRAYLab team on the scaffolding used to access the frieze of King Philip II’s tomb at Vergina, Greece. During the project, two X-ray techniques were employed simultaneously (MA-XRF and MA-XRD) | © CNR ISPC
E-RIHS.it - MOLAB campaign by the CNR ISPC XRAYLab team on the scaffolding providing access to the frieze of King Philip II’s tomb at Vergina, Greece. During the activity, two X-ray techniques were employed simultaneously (MA-XRF and MA-XRD) | © CNR ISPC
E-RIHS.it Campaign – MOLAB of the CNR ISPC Manuscripts and Archives Research Group. Advanced UV fluorescence techniques for detecting traces of writing invisible to the naked eye | © Danilo Pavone, CNR ISPC
E-RIHS.it - MOLAB campaign by the CNR ISPC Manuscripts and Archives research group. Advanced UV fluorescence techniques to reveal traces of writing invisible to normal light | © Danilo Pavone, CNR ISPC

Another priority is the training of new professionals. Innovative training programs will be promoted to develop specialized skills in digital technologies applied to the conservation, management, and enhancement of cultural heritage. A further central element of the agreement concerns the promotion of open science for all. Through the use of artificial intelligence and innovative digital tools, the results of the studies will be made more accessible to a broad and international audience. At the same time, participatory science initiatives will be encouraged, with the aim of actively involving citizens and making cultural heritage inclusive.

The agreement, signed by Andrea De Pasquale on behalf of the Directorate General for Digitization and Communication of the Ministry of Culture, by Costanza Miliani, Interim Director of CNR ISPC, and by Vania Virgili, Director General of E-RIHS ERIC, will have an initial duration of three years. A coordination committee will be tasked with planning activities and monitoring results.

The initiative will also contribute to the development and integration of European digital infrastructures, including the Common European Data Space for Cultural Heritage,the European Collaborative Cloud for Cultural Heritage, andthe European Open Science Cloud, promoting greater data interoperability and broader accessibility to cultural heritage.

Cultural and Digital Heritage: Agreement Signed Between the Ministry of Culture, the National Research Council (CNR), and E-RIHS ERIC
Cultural and Digital Heritage: Agreement Signed Between the Ministry of Culture, the National Research Council (CNR), and E-RIHS ERIC



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