Discover the secrets of the Mediterranean diet at Sicily’s immersive exhibition

The Mediterranean Diet: Celebrating a Cultural and Culinary Heritage Through an Immersive Exhibition at the Museum of Etna.

The Museum of Etna in Viagrande is set to host a temporary exhibition dedicated to the Mediterranean Diet, marking its 15th anniversary since being recognized by UNESCO. Titled “Mediterranean Diet: Health, Environment, and Flavors of Sicily,” the exhibition aims to offer an interactive and immersive journey into the history, tradition, and benefits of this lifestyle. Through sensory experiences, visitors will explore the cultural and environmental values embodied by the Mediterranean Diet, which is more than just a nutritional regime; it is a lifestyle that emphasizes fresh, local products and sustainable practices.

Historical recognition and cultural significance

On November 16, 2010, the Mediterranean Diet was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List, a milestone that acknowledged its profound cultural and lifestyle significance. More than a diet, it represents a way of life deeply connected to agricultural practices, culinary rituals, and communal dining. The Mediterranean Diet emphasizes the importance of consuming fresh, locally-sourced foods that foster a connection with nature and promote personal well-being. This exhibition at the Museum of Etna aims to illustrate these values, offering visitors a unique sensory experience that encapsulates the essence of Sicilian culinary tradition.

A multisensory exhibition experience

The exhibition will open on March 24, 2025, from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, featuring guided tours and educational workshops for over 100 primary school students. As highlighted by Ettore Barbagallo, president of the Association Amici della Terra Sicilia, the exhibition space will be equipped with educational panels, multimedia totems, and an immersive room designed to engage all senses. Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with immersive videos, sounds, scents, and captivating scenographies that pay tribute to Sicily’s natural and cultural wealth.

Innovative installations and educational outreach

The exhibition will also feature innovative installations, including a high-tech food pyramid to illustrate the proper distribution of foods in a daily diet. Through interactive games and educational videos, participants can learn while enjoying themselves, discovering ancient crafts associated with food and gastronomic traditions. The event aims to raise public awareness on sustainability, waste reduction, and biodiversity, highlighting the Mediterranean Diet’s role in these critical areas.

Collaborative efforts and societal impact

This exhibition has been made possible through the collaboration between the Association Amici della Terra – Club dell’Etna and Latte Stella, a company that has long championed the Mediterranean Diet. Utilizing advanced museum technologies, the exhibition offers an engaging and educational visitor experience. It is open not only to the press but also to anyone interested in exploring the Mediterranean Diet and its implications for health and environmental sustainability.

Through this exhibition, the Museum of Etna reaffirms its position as a leading center for educational and scientific dissemination in Italy, providing the public with a unique opportunity to discover and celebrate the deep-rooted values of a culinary tradition intrinsic to Sicilian culture.

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