by EH
Trieste, a city steeped in history and cultural richness, becomes the epicenter of a captivating archaeological journey with the ongoing exhibition, “Histri in Istria,” gracing the hallowed halls of the J.J. Winckelmann Museum until April 1, 2024. This exhibition, born from the collaborative efforts of the Croatian Community of Trieste and the Archaeological Museum of Istria, unfolds a tapestry of over 200 artifacts, each echoing the tales of the Histri people who once dominated the Istrian peninsula.
Mayor Roberto Dipiazza, a fervent advocate for cultural diplomacy, lauds the exhibition as a testament to the strong bonds shared with Croatia. He expressed his gratitude during the exhibition’s inauguration, citing the warmth and cordiality displayed by the Croatian community. Dipiazza’s sentiments underscore the longstanding connections that transcend geographical boundaries, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
Councilor Giorgio Rossi, responsible for Culture and Tourism, took a moment to reflect on Trieste’s recent accolade by “Il Sole 24 Ore,” ranking the city as Italy’s premier hub for culture and leisure. He emphasized the pivotal role of the exhibition in further enhancing Trieste’s cultural landscape. Rossi articulated the significance of this cultural dialogue, highlighting the exhibition’s contribution to fostering connections between the Istrian region and Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Damir Murkovic, President of the Croatian Community of Trieste, sees the exhibition as a pivotal contribution to knowledge and culture. He emphasized the collaborative spirit that underpins projects between the Croatian community, the Municipality of Trieste, and the Archaeological Museum of Istria. Murkovic envisions the exhibition as a catalyst for fostering cultural growth and reflection, particularly among the younger generation.
At the heart of the exhibition is the meticulous curation by Martina Blečić Kavur, whose expertise brings to life the Iron Age culture of the Histri people. She characterizes this ancient civilization as not merely a historical footnote but a true cultural and artistic force. The showcased artifacts unveil the Histri’s way of life, their rituals, burial practices, and a rich material culture that transcended the Adriatic region.
Marzia Vidulli Torlo, Conservator of the “J.J. Winckelmann” Museum of Antiquities, expressed great pleasure in hosting the exhibition. It marks the second installment in a trilogy dedicated to the prehistoric peoples of Croatia, enriching the museum’s collection and offering visitors a comprehensive insight into Istria’s multifaceted history.
The exhibition, unveiled to the press on December 14, is set to open its doors to the public on December 15, 2023. The Archaeological Museum of Istria in Pula collaboratively organized the exhibition, marking its debut in Italy. The focus remains on the history, customs, and traditions of the Histri people, who left an indelible mark on the Istrian peninsula from the 12th century B.C. until the Roman conquest in 177 B.C.
As visitors traverse the halls of the J.J. Winckelmann Museum, they are greeted by artifacts originating from extensive archaeological research in Histrian necropolises and tombs. These relics offer profound insights into the customs and culture of this ancient civilization. Noteworthy among the artifacts is a tomb discovered beneath the foundations of a Roman temple in Nesazio in 1981, a treasure trove of archaeological wonders that speaks volumes about Histrian life.
The exhibition also extends beyond the physical artifacts, incorporating collateral events at the Bobi Bazlen Hall in Palazzo Gopcevich from mid-January to late March. These events promise to deepen the understanding of Istria’s prehistoric past and its connections to the present.
“Histri in Istria” invites the public on a transformative journey through time, fostering a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of Istria’s cultural heritage. Open to visitors until April 1, 2024, from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, this exhibition serves as a bridge connecting the contemporary audience with the ancient Histri civilization.
