Exploring Memory, Cultural Heritage and Artistic Research
3rd T4EU Heritage Week in Trieste
21-23 October 2026 | University of Trieste, Italy
Summary
From 21 to 23 October 2026, the University of Trieste hosted Mnemosyne – the 3rd Transform4Europe Heritage Week, bringing together scholars, artists, students and cultural heritage professionals for three days of international dialogue and exchange on memory, cultural heritage, art and research.
The event offered an interdisciplinary platform to explore how collective memories are shaped, contested and reinterpreted, particularly in times of crisis.
Reframing memories in times of crises
The first two days (21–22 October) focused on Reframing memories in times of crises, exploring contested memories in European history through historical and anthropological perspectives.
Discussions addressed topics ranging from Italian colonialism and the Spanish Civil War to the legacy of Nazism and Fascism, as well as the complex histories and identities of European border regions.
The programme also brought together representatives of museums and cultural institutions, including the Risiera di San Sabba Museum, Magazzino 18 in Trieste and the Museu das Convergências in Porto, to reflect on the challenges of preserving, interpreting and communicating difficult or conflicting histories.
Art and Science as participatory practices
On 23 October, the focus shifted to the relationship between art, science and community engagement.
The Regional Artistic Research roundtable explored artistic creation as a tool for interdisciplinary research, education and participatory knowledge production, highlighting the potential of creative approaches to engage communities in cultural heritage.
Participants also had the opportunity to explore the University of Trieste’s cultural heritage through visits to the permanent exhibition dedicated to Gaetano Kanizsa and the Rectorate Art Gallery.
Strengthening European Dialogue Through Cultural Heritage
The 3rd T4EU Heritage Week provided an opportunity to connect different academic disciplines, artistic perspectives and cultural institutions from across Europe.
By encouraging dialogue on complex historical narratives and promoting innovative approaches to cultural heritage, the event contributed to Transform4Europe’s commitment to international cooperation, interdisciplinary learning and engagement with society.
Mnemosyne highlighted how reflecting on the past can foster a deeper understanding of Europe’s shared yet diverse cultural heritage, while opening new perspectives for research, education and dialogue.
