Tradition Meets Modernity in Naples, Italy
Erasmus+ “Culture Creators and Carriers” | Mobility Report: October 13–19, 2024
In October 2024, the Erasmus+ project “Culture Creators and Carriers” continued its journey through Europe with a vibrant mobility in Naples, Italy. Participants from Greece, Spain, Türkiye, and the host country Italy came together for a week filled with artistic exploration, historical immersion, and deep cultural dialogue.
Naples, a city where ancient heritage and modern life coexist seamlessly, welcomed students and educators with open arms. From the very first day, the group was immersed in Italian culture, focusing on the richness of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) and how traditions are kept alive through storytelling, crafts, and community.
Day-by-Day Highlights
October 14 — Welcoming Activities & ICH in Italy
The mobility began with a walking tour of the hosting school and interviews with international students who offered their perspectives on integration and cultural identity. Presentations on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in Italy gave all participants an academic and emotional understanding of the traditions being preserved—ranging from Neapolitan music to regional festivals and oral history.
October 15 — History and Craftsmanship
Students explored the Historic Centre of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with centuries-old buildings, lively streets, and hidden cultural gems. A special workshop was held at Ferrigno, a renowned artisan studio known for handcrafted nativity figurines. This hands-on experience demonstrated how traditional crafts can evolve yet stay rooted in cultural memory.
October 16 — Beauty by the Bay
The group ventured along the famous Neapolitan seafront, visiting cultural and historical sites that capture the city’s spirit. The day blended leisure with learning, offering space for reflection and cross-cultural conversations amid the scenic backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the Mediterranean Sea.
October 17 — Archaeology and Coastal Culture
A day trip to Pompei and Sorrento brought Roman history to life. Walking through the ancient streets of Pompei and experiencing the coastal charm of Sorrento allowed students to witness Italy’s layered past and its influence on modern identity.
October 18 — Creativity and Closure
The final day was a celebration of everything learned and shared. Students presented their own creative videos reflecting on the mobility, while teachers held a project meeting to evaluate progress. The certificate ceremony and farewell party provided an emotional ending to an unforgettable week.
A Living Heritage
This week in Naples served as a powerful reminder that culture is not static—it is made by people, shared through stories, and passed down through actions. Whether in a classroom or a bustling city square, each encounter helped participants understand that European heritage is richer when celebrated together.
“In Naples, we didn’t just see history—we felt it. And we added our own voices to it.”
A sample of our photos can be seen to the following link : https://photos.app.goo.gl/wM1ZURYivNsqmxRSA