The Ecomuseum of the Alto Maceratese Inner Area: an Instrument for the Geodiversity and Biodiversity Valorization to Counteract the Depopulation of Central Italy's Apennines

The Alto Maceratese Inner Area is a region in the Apennine of central Italy, identified within Italy's National Strategy for Inner Areas (SNAI) as an area facing challenges like depopulation and limited access to essential services, yet rich in natural, cultural, and economic resources. To address these issues, the realisation of an Ecomuseum - an institution that promotes the preservation, interpretation, and enhancement of a territory's natural and cultural heritage, actively involving local communities - has been proposed as a strategic instrument for the sustainable development of the area.

The Ecomuseum is based on the integration of geodiversity and biodiversity with local heritage components and the project is grounded in a comprehensive analysis of the local context to identify the main elements of geological, geomorphological, biological, ecosystem, and cultural interest.

The project is designed around four thematic itineraries: i) Geodiversity and Biodiversity - geological and biological heritage of the region, ii) Waters - geological, ecological, and cultural significance of water resources, iii) Workshops Ideas Knowledge Experiences - links cultural practices to the natural environment, iv) History and Fortresses - history of the region connected to its natural landscape.

The selected elements are organized into three interconnected systems according to importance, aims and accessibility: Centers are the Ecomuseum's main hubs, strategically located along major communication routes, where interactive exhibitions, multimedia installations, and educational programs that promote awareness of geoscience and biodiversity are host. Antennas are situated in each municipality and they act as territorial branches that connect the Centers with local communities and link the territorial elements (satellites); their role is to adapt educational initiatives to the local context, involving residents in guided tours, workshops, and geoscientific events. Satellites are sites or paths, they provide immersive opportunities for visitors and communities to experience the geoheritage and biodiversity aspects of the area, integrating geological data, landscapes and local traditions through thematic trails.

Result of the design process is a structured and comprehensive Ecomuseum model that integrates natural resources into a dynamic and accessible network. Key outcomes include: i) Ecomuseum’s structure which provides a scalable and replicable model for different territories, ii) a place for the development of innovative educational programs where to use interactive technologies to disseminate geoscientific and ecological knowledge, iii) increased public awareness of geological, biological and cultural heritage and iv) new tourism opportunities supporting local communities.

The Ecomuseum project can act as catalyst for the development of local and regional initiatives related to geological and natural heritage, strengthening connections between stakeholders, administrations, universities, and communities. This dynamic framework enhances the area’s appeal, promotes environmental awareness, and fosters sustainable development.

Keywords: Ecomuseum, Geoheritage, Geodiversity, Apennines, Inner Areas