The Museo Cappella Sansevero is participating in the European Heritage Days 2024, scheduled for September 28, 29 and 30, with a series of special activities. Among these, the exhibition of the Lettera Apologetica del Principe di Sansevero stands out, a significant work that reflects the intercultural richness and progressive thought of the VII Prince of Sansevero, Raimondo di Sangro.
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The Apologetic Letter on Display
To celebrate the theme chosen for this edition of the European Heritage Days, “Heritage on the move”, the Museo Cappella Sansevero will exhibit the original edition of the Lettera Apologetica. This work by Raimondo di Sangro, published by his private printing house in 1751, defended the ancient Inca communication system of the quipu, knots made with colored strings, attributing to it the dignity of writing.
A Cultural Solidarity Project
As has been the case for several editions, the Museo Cappella Sansevero is committed to a cultural solidarity project during the European Heritage Days. This year, part of the proceeds from the day of September 28 (in the amount of €1,00 for each paying visitor) will be donated to the State Archives of Naples. These funds will be used for the restoration of a series of historical drawings from notarial protocols between the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries, which depict monuments and views of the city of Naples.
An Intercultural Dialogue
The Lettera Apologetica dell'Esercitato accademia della Crusca, which defends the book entitled “Lettere d'una Peruana”, testifies to the modernity and intercultural openness of Prince Raimondo di Sangro. Through this work, the prince revealed a cosmopolitan and nonconformist mind, curious to explore the cultures and customs of distant peoples. This approach promoted an intercultural dialogue already in the 18th century.
An Erudite Work and a Critique of the Dominant Culture
The Lettera Apologetica is not only a study of the quipus, but also represents a subtle critique of the limits of the dominant European culture. Raimondo di Sangro rejected the vision of the Incas as “savages”, proposing instead an alternative perspective in the name of cultural relativism. This work, which gained fame and also condemnation from the Church, demonstrates how cultural diversity does not mean backwardness, but rather another form of advancement and cultural richness.
A Heritage to Protect
The European Heritage Days event, the largest and most popular cultural event in Europe, is an invitation to explore the interactions between different cultures that have contributed to the formation of our identity. The Museo Cappella Sansevero, with its exhibition and its solidarity project, fits perfectly into this context, offering visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the past and present of European cultural heritage.
Article published on 25 September 2024 - 17:37
