AMEI to hold national conference in Prato

The Association of Italian Ecclesiastical Museums (AMEI) will hold its 2026 national conference on October 9 and 10 at the San Domenico Monumental Complex in Prato. Titled "The Art of Us – Ecclesiastical Museums and Community," the two-day event invites museum directors, cultural operators, and industry professionals to discuss how Christian and cultural identity can foster community engagement and active citizenship.

The conference aims to highlight the faith and testimonial mission of these institutions, presenting them as spaces for regeneration rather than general social services. Organizers intend to use the meeting to update museum management and visitor practices in line with ICOM definitions that emphasize the active participation of local communities and new citizens.

Scheduled speakers include AMEI president and Monza Cathedral Museum director Rita Capurro, who will open the sessions on the museology of encounter. Antonella Pinna, president of ICOM Italy for 2026–2028, will speak on the relationship between museums, the local territory, and the community. Father Antonio Loffredo, vice president of the Fondazione Napoli C’entro, will also share his experience regarding urban regeneration.