This project aims to reassess the history of Italian colonialism in Africa, and the stories commonly told about it, by re-signifying the vast range of objects, documents and photographs collected by geographer and explorer Luigi Robecchi Bricchetti (1855–1926) and tracing their afterlives. We will offer new ways of understanding how Italian colonialism came about, by examining the information and objects he collected. We will ask how Bricchetti’s travels enhanced knowledge about Africa, facilitating Italy’s subsequent occupation of African territories, and how they created a cultural imaginary of (future) colonies. 

Virtual Exhibition

Our virtual exhibition features photographs and 3D models of objects from Africa held in Pavia. It draws connections between Robecchi Bricchetti’s little-known collection and other institutions across the world that hold objects from East Africa. 

Social Media

Follow @ItalianColonialAfterlives on Instagram for updates on our research. 

Upcoming Events

23-25 June 2026. "Geographical Societies, Exploration, and African Collections between Egypt, Italy, and the Horn of Africa". Egyptian Geographical Society, 109 Shari’ al-Qasr al-Ayni, Cairo, Egypt.

Recent Events

28 May 2026. "Oltre la commemorazione di Luigi Robecchi Bricchetti: l’Africa e il colonialismo italiano tra storia e memoria". 17:00, Castello Visconteo, Pavia.

14 May 2026. Amir Remedan. "Preserving a Living Historic City: Harar Jugol". 18:00, Culture House, London. 

15 May 2026. "Sguardi sul passato: Luigi Robecchi Bricchetti tra memoria e attualità: scienza, esplorazione e responsabilità contemporanee". 17:00, Museo Kosmos, Pavia