Roca Vecchia and Grotta della Poesia: public-private PSPP signed to

Roca Vecchia and Grotta della Poesia: PSPP launches site enhancement project

The Municipality of Melendugno and the social cooperative ArtWork have formalized a Special Public-Private Partnership (PSPP) to manage and promote the archaeological area of Roca Vecchia and the renowned Grotta della Poesia. The initiative, named ArcheoRoca, aims to combine heritage protection, scientific research and sustainable tourism development.

Planned interventions

The PSPP has an initial duration of 15 years renewable and foresees private-funded investments. Key actions include:

• Investment: €1.4 million planned over the next four years, fully funded by the private partner;
• Access and visiting: year-round opening, with both traditional guided tours and virtual visit options;
• Jobs: creation of about 20 full-time positions at full capacity;
• Exhibition space: establishment of a museum in the former Summer Seminary premises;
• Pathways and links: functional connection between the castle area and the archaeological site, upgraded signage and walkways;
• Conservation works: removal of a deteriorated iron staircase inside the Poesia Piccola and other maintenance activities;
• Visitor services: organized parking management and enhanced front-of-house services.

Governance and oversight

A permanent Technical Coordination Table composed of municipal and ArtWork representatives will supervise transparency and goal compliance. The body will monitor the investment timeline and work closely with the Superintendency to ensure conservation standards and research-based management.

Administrative process and partner selection

The agreement concludes a procedure started in 2024 that included municipal council approval and a positive evaluation by the Superintendency of the executive projects. An expert commission assessed the proposals and selected the cooperative as the most suitable partner to implement the plan.

Strategic impact for the territory

ArcheoRoca seeks to make Roca Vecchia and the Grotta della Poesia a year-round cultural hub capable of boosting visitor appeal, generating employment and strengthening local identity. The municipality will retain a central governance role and receive 25% of the revenues produced.

The approach draws on similar national examples and is designed to integrate protection, research and innovative visitor experiences to enhance one of Salento's most iconic heritage sites.