FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMES
National Network
Italy
Address
Lungomare Lamarmora, 115Country
City
Santa Maria al Bagno- NardóProvince
LecceMobile Phone
+393343000933Telephone
+31654242984Telephone (other)
+31654242984E-Mail (2)
info@fluxuscooperativa.comE-Mail (3)
info@museomemoriaeaccoglienza.comWebsite
Click HereYear of Establishment
2009Contact Person1
Gary FeingoldJob Title 1
International Relations, Programming, FundraisingContact Person 2
Valeria Dell'AttiJob Title 2
General ManagerOrganisation Type
Public InstitutionFields of Activity
Heritage, International/Cultural relationsGeneral Information
The Museum of Memory and Welcome, located in Santa Maria al Bagno, Nardò, Salento, Italy, opened in 2009. Designed by architect Luca Zevi, the museum occupies a former school building and commemorates the period between 1944 and 1947 when Allied Forces established displacement camps in the area. It highlights the unique bond between local residents and Jewish refugees, many of whom were concentration camp survivors. The establishment of the museum was a logical next step.
The museum explores the events that brought thousands of Jewish refugees to the Allied-run transit camps, . Among these camps, Camp 34 in Santa Maria al Bagno was one of the largest.
The museum features two different rooms dedicated to the stories of Holocaust survivors who found refuge in Apulia during this time, as well as a room which holds rotating exhibitions, and a multimedia/meeting space. The museum also preserves artifacts and historical testimonies of international significance that bear witness to this poignant chapter in history, offering a powerful tribute to resilience and solidarity.
Mission and Objectives
Mission:
To commemorate and preserve the historical experiences of Jewish and other refugees and the local communities who offered them refuge during and after World War II, fostering resilience, solidarity, and intercultural understanding. The Museum aims to educate and engage diverse audiences through exhibitions, programs, and events that honor this unique chapter in history.
Vision:
To evolve into a dynamic cultural and educational hub that bridges local and global histories, emphasizing themes of migration, coexistence, and shared human experiences. The Museum seeks to remain relevant by addressing contemporary issues such as antisemitism and migration, using its seaside location and cultural assets to inspire dialogue, learning, and connection among visitors from diverse backgrounds. It strives to create a space that celebrates Jewish and local culture, explores interreligious exchanges, reflects on migration narratives, and highlights the Mediterranean region's historical and cultural heritage.
Main Projects / Activities
The museum regularly presents guest exhibitions and different events which relate to the main themes:
1. Migration and Hope: Past and Present
This program line reflects on the challenges and aspirations tied to migration, from the mass displacements following World War II to the ongoing realities of migration today. It examines issues such as resettlement and integration while highlighting the universal experience of seeking hope and a better future, extending beyond the Jewish context to encompass diverse migration narratives.
2. Mediterranean Heritage
Focusing on the Salento region, this program line highlights its rich historical and cultural identity shaped by centuries of interactions between indigenous populations and diverse cultures. Salento's late medieval history, for example, reflects a multiethnic and multi-faith society enriched by Mediterranean scholars and thinkers. The program seeks to uncover these influences—some preserved, others forgotten—and their enduring impact on contemporary Salento society.
3. Jewish Culture and Interreligious Experience
This program line honors the museum’s origins, which commemorate the interaction between Jewish refugees and the predominantly Catholic townspeople. It explores Jewish culture and fosters understanding of interreligious and intercultural exchanges, using this historical example as a lens to examine broader themes of coexistence and dialogue.
Recent activities include an interreligious dialogue meeting with the local Imam, local priest and a Jewish studies professor, exploring the subject of how each religion approaches the theme of 'Welcome'. A recent exhibition has shown paintings Israeli (both Jewish and Arab) and Gazan children on the theme of hope and peace. A coming exhibition is called 'BESA', highlighting the stories of Albanian Moslims who saved Jews during WW2
How can you contribute to the Network in your country?
In this time of division and polarization, the museum seeks to highlight moments and opportunities that help bridge the gaps between people, just as happened between 1944 and 1947 in this town. Building on these themes, and thanks to our splendid location by the sea, we can host events that may be of interest to other ALF members, as well as participate in activities and cultural exchanges organized by the ALF in Italy and abroad.
Why do you want to join the ALF Network?
We want to join the Anna Lindh Foundation network in order to expand our own local and international networks and to use this synergy for mutual benefit. Being a member will help us in our endeavor to build bridges between people, countries, and religions.