Progetto PATH

Taking an interdisciplinary approach that draws on architecture, psychology and the sociology of law, the Department of Architecture at the University of Ferrara, in collaboration with Plam Studio, has launched four experimental projects aimed at improving access to culture, whilst also offering children an opportunity for socialisation and personal development.

The experiments were conducted in various settings, including an archaeological excavation site, a museum, a park, and a historic city centre, with the objective of identifying shared strategies that would facilitate access to and enjoyment of cultural venues.

In cooperation with the Il Nodo association in Ferrara, all texts relating to the planned activities were translated into CAA (Alternative and Augmentative Communication) and suitable printed guides were produced and made available to download from the project website.

The visitor route at the Via Appia Antica 39 archaeological site is designed to be free from perceptual and cognitive barriers. Aimed at children aged 8–12, it takes the form of a series of stages that simulate the key activities carried out at an archaeological site, such as stratigraphic excavation, discovery, cleaning, cataloguing, and artefact study. The tour also introduces visitors to the tools used by archaeologists and explains the history of the ancient Roman cemetery on which the site stands.
We have devised activities suitable for a wide audience and designed objects for visitors to interact with, such as 3D-printed fragments of Roman vases that can be assembled using magnetic clips. We have also designed, produced and installed exhibition displays, including totems, folding tables and interchangeable panels, which can be adapted depending on the chosen activity.
In collaboration with UCI Ferrara, micro-capsule certificates were printed on paper for the pop-up event on 4 June 2025 at the Appia Antica 39 excavation site. These certificates feature pictograms and embossed texts that have been appropriately translated into Braille script.

On 4 June 2025, two Year 4 classes from the Raffaello Comprehensive School in Rome and the children from the ‘Il Nodo’ Association in Ferrara were invited to the excavation site to take part in the planned activities.

Project 1 was developed in collaboration with:
Rachele Dubbini and Chiara Maria Marchetti (Department of Humanities, University of Ferrara).
We would also like to thank the following for their cooperation: Associazione Il Nodo Aps in Ferrara.
Italian Union of the Blind and Partially Sighted, Ferrara branch.
Dr Simone Zorzi, Udine Integrated University Health Authority, University of Udine.

A portable kit has been designed to enhance the museum experience: the ‘Painter’s Kit’. The kit contains fun and educational activities designed to make the visit an accessible, engaging and stimulating experience for families and children.

The activities, to be carried out whilst viewing the exhibition, are designed to encourage visitors to observe the artworks. Through play, exploration and active participation, the ‘Painter’s Kit’ enriches the museum experience, making it more dynamic and inclusive, whilst raising visitors’ awareness of the painter’s craft (line, colour and composition).

The prototype bag was made from coloured scraps of PVC lorry tarpaulin. Seatbelts were used for the handles and shoulder strap. The hand-sewn folders are felt-lined on the inside. The kit also includes a cushion to allow flexible and informal use of the space, providing sufficient comfort and support when carrying out activities.

The ‘Painter’s Kit’ was trialled on 6 February 2026 as part of the exhibition ‘Gianfranco Goberti: The Magic of Painting’ at the Castello Estense in Ferrara, together with the young people from the Il Nodo Association in Ferrara.

Thanks to:
Associazione Il Nodo Aps di Ferrara
Dott.ssa Ethel Guidi, Head of the Art Museums Department of Ferrara City Council
Dr Chiara Vorrasi, Museum Curator and Head of the Modern Art Department in Ferrara.

The route through Ferrara’s historic centre runs from the cathedral to the playground in Parco Massari. Designed specifically for children, the route winds through the heart of the city and highlights the main monuments along the way. A guide provides clear descriptions that are accessible to everyone.

A signage system with a consistent design has been devised for the route, comprising panels featuring pictograms identifying the individual stages and signposts positioned at regular intervals. These elements indicate turns and ensure visual continuity, which aids navigation, making the route immediately recognisable within the city.

The signage system has been designed to attach to existing information panels, thereby seamlessly integrating the information already displayed around the city.

We would like to thank Associazione Il Nodo Aps in Ferrara for the translations.