Discover the MUGEPA: Now Open to the Public!

On April 27th, 3D Research participated in the inauguration of the Geo-Paleontological and Archaeological Museum (MUGEPA) in Rotonda (PZ).

3D Research contributed to the realization of this project by overseeing the artistic direction, exhibition design, multimedia installation, communication, and visual identity.

The inauguration was a success, with the participation of the institutions, the Municipal Council of Rotonda, Mayor Rocco Bruno, RAI, several local TV stations and a delegation from the Carabinieri and the Pollino National Park Authority. There were numerous visitors from the local community.

Rotonda's Councillor for Tourism, Donatella Franzese, who moderated the day's speeches, thanked all those who had made the project possible: The Municipality of Rotonda, the architect Rocco Cina, the scientific director of the museum Fabrizio Mollo, the technical office (engineer Antonio Palmieri), the works manager engineer Gaetano Armando with his company Engineering together with Delta srl, the carpenter Giuseppe Raimondo and the company 3D Research. We would like to thank all those who, in their various capacities, contributed to the preparation of the scientific content, such as the following experts Dr Maurizio Lazzari for the geological part, Dr Vittorio Borselli (Museum of Geology and Palaeontology, University of Florence), Dr Luca Bellucci for the palaeontological part and the presentation of the finds, Dr Fabrizio Mollo for the archaeological part. Fundamental contributions were made by Professor Marco Peter Ferrenti (University of Camerino), Professor Raffaele Sardella (Sapienza University of Rome) and Professor Dawid Adam Iurino (University of Milan).

Next, the Mayor of Rotonda, Rocco Bruno, after offering institutional thanks and greetings, recounted the long and challenging process that has led to the museum's enhancement. He emphasized the pride the community can take in this significant accomplishment, noting that MUGEPA is a valuable resource now welcoming not only enthusiasts but, most importantly, a younger audience through its new multimedia section.

There were several speeches at the inauguration, including one by the president of 3D Research, Fabio Bruno, who gave an overview of the new technologies in the museum. The scientific content has been made more inclusive and accessible to all sections of the public, especially children and young people who will visit the museum. President Bruno presented the various thematic rooms, the possibility of enjoying an interactive experience thanks to a touch table that allows you to see the bones in 3D, and some other in-depth features. A touch screen in the geology room allows visitors to learn more about the various rock samples. There is also a multimedia room dedicated to children, who will have tablets with 3 different mini-games to stimulate them and bring them closer to scientific knowledge.

The Creative Director of 3D Research, Paola Di Cuia, recounted the evolution of the MUGEPA project, tracing its stages, from the time when it was just a contract for the introduction of some multimedia elements in the old layout, to its transformation into a new, complete and more structured exhibition itinerary, listening step by step to new needs and requests. The project has become an itinerary of 3 macro areas, starting with the analysis of the territory, then the fossil remains and finally the archaeological part.

A room of great significance is dedicated to the excavations that uncovered the remains of the ancient elephant and other remarkable finds. It offers a chance to reflect on the invaluable work of the palaeontological and archaeological experts who conducted excavations in the Mercure area of Rotonda during the 1980s. Without their commitment and expertise, we would not have access to this precious glimpse into our past.

Often overlooked, the professions of palaeontologists and archaeologists are essential. Behind every excavation lies rigorous research, study, and dedication. For this reason, we have devoted space to honour these professions, whose delicate and crucial work brings to light important fragments of our shared history.

MUGEPA is a real museum in evolution, with rooms still to be completed and many contents to be integrated.

The event was also attended by the family of Mario Caldarelli, the man who, 40 years ago, discovered the remains of the ancient elephant and wrote a new history for the municipality of Rotonda and beyond. At the end of the conference, the plaque dedicated to him was unveiled, to the great emotion of the Caldarelli family.

During the event, the experts were available to answer the public's questions and 3D Research coordinated the multimedia area, showing the evocative VR video of the Paleoambiente.

The event ended successfully late in the evening, with a steady stream of enthusiastic visitors.