1x4 C'era una volta Francesco Zorzi

Summary

In this broadcast, the history of Francesco Zorzi and his contributions to archeology are discussed. Zorzi, who was a pivotal figure at the Natural History Museum of Verona, led archaeological excavations at the Colombare site in Negrar, uncovering important findings from the Neolithic and Copper Age. The episode also covers the collaboration between the University of Milan and the Verona Museum, a partnership that is reviving these historical excavations. The program highlights the significance of preserving and studying Zorzi's archives, which contain detailed records of his work, helping modern researchers uncover new insights into ancient sites.

Takeaways

• 😀 Francesco Zorzi was a key figure in Verona's archaeological history, serving as the director of the Museum of Natural History from 1945 to 1964, and was instrumental in excavations like those at Colombare di Negrar.
• 😀 The excavation site at Colombare di Negrar was first uncovered in the early 1950s by Zorzi, and his work led to the discovery of prehistoric remains, which are now being revisited by modern researchers.
• 😀 A significant new partnership was formed between the University of Milan and the Museum of Natural History in Verona to resume excavations at Colombare di Negrar, continuing Zorzi's pioneering research.
• 😀 The collaboration between the Museum of Natural History and the University of Milan is crucial for both new archaeological digs and the recovery and publication of historical documents related to past excavations.
• 😀 Francesco Zorzi's work was particularly notable for his determination to preserve and study archaeological sites, even taking proactive steps to begin investigations without official permissions in order to protect important finds.
• 😀 The archives of Francesco Zorzi, stored at the Museum of Natural History, provide vital insights into his archaeological work, including letters, sketches, and research notes that help reconstruct his explorations and discoveries.
• 😀 The Zorzi Archive, containing 17 containers of materials, includes detailed records of his research, site visits, and correspondences, offering invaluable information for current and future studies.
• 😀 Nicoletta Martinelli emphasized the importance of Zorzi’s archives in understanding both his methods and his personality, particularly his combative and passionate approach to archaeology.
• 😀 The museum also holds an extensive photographic archive that documents Zorzi’s fieldwork, providing further evidence of his exploration and the archaeological sites he identified.
• 😀 The ongoing research and publication of Zorzi's archives and materials, alongside current excavations at Colombare, serve to enrich both public knowledge and academic study of the region's prehistoric past.

Q & A

What is the main topic of this evening's episode?

The main topic is Francesco Zorzi, focusing on his contributions to archaeology and his involvement with the 'Colombare di Negrar' excavations.

Who is Francesca Briani and what is her role in the discussion?

Francesca Briani is the Councilor for Culture, Tourism, Youth, and Equal Opportunities of the Municipality of Verona. She discusses the collaboration between the Museum of Natural History in Verona and the University of Milan for archaeological research.

What was the significance of the agreement between the Museum of Natural History in Verona and the University of Milan?

The agreement is important for continuing excavations at the Colombare di Negrar site, with a focus on recovering and analyzing the archival material and documents from past excavations to further the research.

How did Francesco Zorzi contribute to the development of the Museum of Natural History in Verona?

Francesco Zorzi played a key role as the museum's director from 1945 to 1964, directing important archaeological research and overseeing the museum’s operations during challenging periods, including the fascist era and post-WWII.

What specific archaeological site is associated with Francesco Zorzi's work?

Zorzi is particularly associated with the excavation of the Colombare di Negrar site, located in Valpolicella, which he discovered in the early 1950s.

What was the significance of Zorzi’s excavations at Colombare di Negrar?

Zorzi’s excavations at Colombare di Negrar revealed prehistoric structures, shedding light on the Neolithic and Copper Age periods, and contributing significantly to the understanding of the region’s prehistoric heritage.

Why did Francesco Zorzi begin his archaeological research at Colombare di Negrar?

Zorzi began the research after a field reconnaissance in the area in the summer of 1951, where he and his collaborator Giovanni Solinas identified promising signs of archaeological material in the soil.

What materials are preserved in the Zorzi archive at the Museum of Natural History in Verona?

The Zorzi archive contains a vast collection of documents, including letters, sketches, research notes, photographs, and topographical maps, which are vital for ongoing archaeological research.

What role does the Museum of Natural History play in preserving Zorzi’s archaeological findings?

The museum is responsible for preserving Zorzi’s extensive archives, including both his written documentation and photographic records of his excavations, which are essential for both historical research and contemporary archaeological studies.

How has the collaboration between the Museum of Natural History and the University of Milan advanced Zorzi’s original work?

The collaboration has led to the continuation of the Colombare di Negrar excavations and the digitalization of old photographic archives and other materials, facilitating the dissemination of Zorzi’s work and opening new avenues for research.