The Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria is pleased to support Bridges of Conscience Across Continents, a project exploring the historical ties between Italy, in particular the city of Reggio Emilia and the Provine of Emilia Romagna, and South Africa through the themes of courage, solidarity and shared memory.
Conceived as a permanent exhibition at Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, the project examines the lives and legacies of three figures whose stories connect the two countries: Oliver Reginald Tambo, Giuseppe Soncini and Dina Forti. Through their experiences, the exhibition will explore the historical connections between communities across continents and the role of solidarity in fostering international understanding and social change.
As part of its contribution to the project, the Italian Cultural Institute is supporting the visit to South Africa of Dr Chiara Torcianti, Director of the Municipal Archives of Reggio Emilia and head of the Reggio Africa Archive at Istoreco (the Institute for the History of the Resistance and Contemporary Society in Reggio Emilia). Her visit, from 22 to 30 October 2026, will contribute to the exchange of historical knowledge and expertise underpinning this initiative.
The pre-launch meeting, scheduled to take place at Constitution Hill on 26 October 2026, marks an important stage in the development of the exhibition. It will provide an opportunity to present the proposed framework and gather input from stakeholders, helping to shape the exhibition’s historical narrative and public presentation ahead of its finalisation.
Through its involvement, the Italian Cultural Institute reaffirms its commitment to fostering cultural exchange and historical dialogue between Italy and South Africa, supporting initiatives that preserve shared memories and illuminate the enduring significance of international solidarity.