18/12/2024 - aroundMEny

A Memorable Evening at the Italian Cultural Institute in New York: Italian Heritage Shines with New Perspectives through the “aroundMEny” Project

The international presentation of the “aroundMEny” project concluded with applause and a celebratory Italian toast at the Italian Cultural Institute (IIC) in New York. This event was a tribute not only to technological innovation but also to the richness and depth of Italian cultural heritage worldwide.

Dr. Alessandra Botta, Cultural Promotion Officer of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cultural Attaché at the IIC in New York, hosted the evening and introduced the distinguished guests: Fabio Castagna, Author and CEO of “GlobalMedia,” and Manuela Biondi, Partner and CEO of the tour operator “Per Le Strade di New York.”

A Digital Bridge Between Past and Future
The IIC supported the initiative, recognizing “aroundMEny” as a shining example of its mission to promote Italian heritage globally. The project, a partnership born from the collaboration between “GlobalMedia” and “Per Le Strade di New York,” aims to make the cultural bond between Italy and the United States tangible, starting from New York, the ultimate symbol of cultural diversity.

Launching in February 2025, the project will be integrated into the services offered by “Per Le Strade di New York.” Through an innovative web platform, visitors and Italian Americans will be able to discover hidden treasures and masterpieces of Italian culture across the city—outdoor landmarks, art pieces, and works preserved in museums and private collections.

Telling Italy’s Story Through Technology
Fabio Castagna shared the origins of the idea, which stemmed from the iMAP COME-BACK virtual platform, created in honor of the historic exhibition La Celeste Galeria in Mantua. He passionately explained how the new project connects the past to the present: with simple internet access and no installations, users can immerse themselves in a New York enriched with Italian influences, uncovering fascinating cultural stories.

Manuela Biondi highlighted some of the platform’s itineraries, showcasing how the app will allow users to rediscover a “hidden Italian New York.” She described it as “an open-air museum” that will surprise anyone exploring the city with fresh eyes.

Unique Experiences with Augmented Reality
Among the most captivating experiences, Fabio Castagna presented examples of augmented reality applications. From Tazio Nuvolari and his legendary Alfa Romeo on Vanderbilt Avenue during the Vanderbilt Cup to the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan that inspired the Giussani sisters for their Diabolik comics. The platform also features tributes to icons like Mike Bongiorno, whose early career in New York will be traceable, alongside famous cinematic moments tied to Marilyn Monroe, Ghostbusters, and King Kong.

Future Collaborations and Horizons
The associations and institutions present enthusiastically supported the project, pledging to help promote and expand its reach. During the event, attendees suggested adding more languages, such as Spanish. In response, Manuela Biondi emphasized that this is just the beginning, with plans to expand the platform to other U.S. cities—including Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington—and eventually to Latin America.

A Toast to the Future
The evening concluded with a toast of Italian prosecco and a tasting of Parmesan cheese, celebrating a new star that now shines from New York onto the world.

For more information and collaborations, visit: https://www.aroundmeny.it/info/

La Voce di New York: ARTICOLO. 

Credits:

Platform AROUNDME Copyright GlobalMedia: https://www.globalmedia.it - Tour Operator Per Le Strade di New York: https://www.perlestradeny.com