In recent decades, archaeological heritage in Italy has become a powerful tool in shaping and affirming local identity. While this connection dates back to the fascist era, its role in post-WWII Italy remained largely overlooked—until a resurgence in the early 2000s. This period saw a rise in autonomous movements, particularly in economically struggling regions, demanding recognition of their rights and cultural identity.
A striking example is the Riace Bronzes, a couple of Greek 5th-century statues discovered near Riace Marina, Calabria, in the 1970s. Initially stored in various contexts – from restoration laboratories to the Regional Council Hall – and finally displayed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria only in 2013, their hypothesized removal on the occasion of national or international exhibitions – such as EXPO Milan 2015 – sparked a fierce debate. Local advocates demanded their permanence to the Museum of Reggio Calabria, emphasizing the statues’ cultural and historical connection to the community. This highlighted the tensions between local identity, national interests, and international recognition.
This study explores the deeply rooted debate over the statues’ placement, revealing their ties to identity politics. Through a critical discourse analysis of regional and national newspapers and parliamentary speeches, the research examines how politicians, archaeologists, and communities constructed diverse narratives around the artifacts. Economic, logistical, and ideological arguments clashed, with rhetorical strategies used to advance competing visions of the statues’ purpose and placement.
Ultimately, the Riace Bronzes are more than artistic treasures; they serve as symbols of cultural identity and instruments of political discourse. This research challenges traditional approaches to heritage, arguing for greater recognition of how archaeological artifacts transcend their material and chronological significance. This work seeks to redefine the relationship between heritage, identity, and the public sphere by fostering awareness of their broader societal roles.

First Author: Andrea Berettera

Keywords:
Archaeological heritage
Cultural Identity
Riace Bronzes
Identity Politics
Heritage discourse analysis
Local vs. national interests