Herculaneum: students act as archaeologists at Villa Campolieto

The public closing day of the School-Work Training programme took place at Villa Campolieto, where students from five local high schools presented projects developed at the Herculaneum Archaeological Park. The participants worked as narrators and digital custodians of the UNESCO site.

Presented activities

The student projects combined technical skills with cultural promotion. Key outputs included:

• 3D surveying and digitization of archaeological assets using 3D scanners and Matterport technology;
• Wireless infrastructure mapping across the site to support digital visitor services;
• Conservation and restoration initiatives supported by photogrammetry and digital cataloguing;
• Reception and cultural mediation proposals, including brochures, docu‑films, photo reports and video stories;
• Artistic and multimedia works inspired by direct observation of ancient Herculaneum.

Training goals and outcomes

The programme aimed to turn the archaeological park into an active learning lab: students took on operational roles in excavation settings, restoration workshops and visitor engagement. This hands‑on pathway strengthens ties between heritage and younger generations while building professional skills relevant to site management and cultural promotion.

Exhibition visit

The event concluded with a guided tour of the exhibition "From Egg to Apple" at Villa Campolieto, focused on ancient food habits. The initiative highlights the Park’s role as an educational and participatory space for experimentation and heritage interpretation.