“Italia in Scena” Reform: what changes for Cultural Heritage

With the definitive approval of Law No. 40/2026, known as “Italia in Scena”, Italy updates the Cultural Heritage Code to promote a more dynamic and participatory management of national assets.

• Digital Registry of Cultural Places: a comprehensive digital map of cultural sites will be established to improve knowledge, planning and monitoring.
• Horizontal Subsidiarity and Digital Register: the law encourages collaboration among the state, citizens, associations and private actors, creating a digital register for those who want to contribute to enhancement efforts.
• Works “out of storage”: measures promote the loan and circulation of artworks currently held in storage for temporary exhibitions and local display, with a focus on smaller communities.

The law takes effect on 14 April 2026. The Ministry has 24 months to define operational details of the national strategy. The stated aim is to bridge the gap between the public and cultural heritage by improving accessibility, transparency and museum management.

For citizens, local administrations and cultural operators the reform provides concrete tools to develop local initiatives, expand cultural offerings and bring previously little-known assets into public view.