Antica Kroton Futura: archaeology as a driver of regeneration in Crotone

Antica Kroton Futura: archaeology as a driver of regeneration in Crotone

A coordinated initiative led by the Municipality of Crotone, the Ministry of Culture and the Calabria Region aims to enhance the city’s archaeological heritage, turning it into a resource for identity, tourism and local economy. The plan, compiled in the so-called White Paper, combines mapping, field surveys and public engagement with targeted interventions.

Planned actions

• Planned excavations in strategic areas such as Acquabona and Parco Pignera to deepen knowledge of the site and recover archaeological materials.
• Restoration and accessibility of the walkways at the Castle of Charles V and consolidation works to make historic structures accessible.
• Narrative ribbon: a cycle-pedestrian route linking key memory sites to tell Crotone’s history continuously and accessibly.
• Urban integration and mobility measures to improve accessibility, national and European connections, and sustainability.
• Training and capacity building for the management and promotion of cultural heritage.

Method and participation

The plan was developed through an urban development lab in collaboration with the Foundation SOS – School of Sustainability and with contributions from architects and academics. Citizen engagement, professional orders and institutions helped convert multidisciplinary analysis into actionable, integrated proposals.

Expected benefits

• New tourist routes and increased cultural attractiveness.
• Growth of local cultural and creative industries and new job opportunities.
• Improved public services and better heritage enjoyment.

Location

Address: Largo Umberto I, 1, 88900 Crotone (KR), Italy
Coordinates: 39.0819129, 17.1278697

Antica Kroton Futura is a practical example of how archaeology can be embedded into sustainable development strategies, promoting active conservation, education and economic regeneration of the territory.