Cultural Maps

The concept of cultural map or community map was born in England in the 1980s (Parish Map) on the basis of some reflections that are still very relevant. The maps are created through participatory paths and enhancement ‘from below’, where the main characters are the inhabitants themselves who choose the objects, practices, places and traditions in which they recognise themselves, according to the principle of patrimonial self-determination.

The Eco-museum of Shepherding has involved, following this method, some local communities of the upper Stura Valley (Argentera, Pietraporzio and Vinadio), where the theme of shepherding, the historical-cultural heritage and landscape, the values, memories and knowledge achieved with the contribution of many generations have been investigated. The result is not just a simple ‘photograph’ of the territory but a representation of the ‘process by which it is photographed’.