This project aims to reassess the history of Italian colonialism in Africa, and the stories commonly told about it, by re-signifying the vast 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. 

Events

Upcoming events, including a decolonial walking tour of Pavia, and a series of academic, archival, and artistic workshops, will be advertised here. 

Social Media

Follow @ItalianColonialAfterlives on Instagram for updates on our research.