The visit of the delegation from the UNESCO site of Butrint to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum has concluded
The institutional visit to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum by the delegation from the UNESCO site of Butrint, composed of specialists from the Butrint Management Foundation (BMF), took place on March 2 and 3, 2026.
The delegation was led by Jorida Muho, Executive Director, assisted by Erjona Qilla (Archaeological Manager and Community Engagement), Ina Hysi (Visitor Manager), Astrit Kore (Facility Manager) and Leonard Husi (Conservation Specialist). The first day of work was also attended by Prof. Richard Hodges, member of the Board of Directors of PHI-IPBC and of the Board of Directors of the Butrint Management Foundation, accompanied by a guest. On the second day, the American conservators-restorers Claudia Chemello and Paul Mardikian also joined the work.
The delegation was accompanied for the entire duration of the visit by the officials of the Herculaneum Archaeological Park (PAE) and by the professionals of PHI-IPBC.
During the two days, inspections were carried out at some of the main areas of the site, including the Suburban Baths, the cryptoporticus, and the tunnels on the east side of the gymnasium pool, as well as the area of the so-called ‘New Excavations’ – Villa of the Papyri. The meetings represented an important opportunity for technical and scientific discussion on the topics of planned conservation, risk management, the application of GIS tools to site management, visitor management strategies, and initiatives for engaging the local area.
Particular attention has been given to the exchange of good practices in the field of protection and enhancement of the archaeological heritage, with insights also useful for planning future excavation campaigns in the eastern area of the site.
The visit is part of a broader path of international collaboration between institutions engaged in the management of sites of exceptional universal value and strengthens the dialogue between the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum and the UNESCO site of Butrint, with a view to long-term scientific and strategic cooperation.