The «engaging community» of Archaeological Sites in Rome

This paper reflects on the relationship between archaeological sites and communities, starting with a summary of the recent debate and focusing on the case of Rome. This is achieved by examining the interplay between scientific discussion, projects, and proposals promoted by research and heritage protection bodies, as well as associations, from the perspective of the ordinary public’s engagement. The information presented is based on the author’s direct experience as a former academic, who was simultaneously involved in museum education with several companies, served as President of the «Gli Archeonauti» Cultural Association, and coordinated the Public Archaeology projects «Appia Primo Miglio» and «Muri per tutti.» The opportunity to simultaneously engage with the academic environment and the diverse audiences of museums and archaeological sites in Rome has provided an ideal context for continuous, long-term reflection, articulated into as many segments as there are facets of a community.