We are thrilled to announce the participation of GIAP (ICAC-CERCA) in an innovative project for the protection of archaeological sites and the fight against illicit excavations by exploiting remote sensing, AI and space-born technologies.
Launching in Autumn 2024, the REVITALISER project, titled “Preventive Protection of Archaeological Sites in the EMMENA Region” marks a significant step forward in the preservation of cultural heritage. Over the course of three years, this initiative will tackle illegal excavations head-on while also fostering innovation and research excellence.
Led by the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence in Cyprus, the project brings together an international consortium of partners including the Fondazione Bruno Kessler (Italy), Maastricht University (Netherlands) and the GIAP from the Catalan Institute of Classical Archaeology (ICAC-CERCA, Catalonia), represented by Prof. Hèctor A. Orengo (ICREA Research Professor at ICAC). Together, we’ve secured funding under the prestigious Twinning Bottom-Up scheme of the EC WIDERA programme, with a budget of €1.5 million, and an astounding 15/15 evaluation result.
This collaboration will create new opportunities for education, training, and skill development, ensuring a legacy of knowledge and expertise in the region and preserving cultural heritage for future generations. It will also ensure the strengthening of the research management, administrative skills, and technical expertise of the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence, enabling the development of innovative strategies for cultural heritage protection.
The project not only underscores our commitment to protecting cultural treasures but also highlights ICAC (CERCA)’s excellence, being selected as one of the referent centres to enhance Cyprus’s emerging role as a centre for research and innovation in the field of cultural heritage.
