Celebrating a century of heritage with a new archaeology section for the Correale Museum in Sorrento

The MSC Foundation joined in the opening of a new Archaeology Section at the Correale Museum in Sorrento, made possible by funding it provided.

Focus Area: Community Support

The opening of the Correale Museum’s new Archaeology Section on the 10th of May also marked the 100th anniversary of the museum’s foundation, enriching the significance of the celebrations attended by dignitaries including Minister of Culture Gennaro Sangiuliano, the Mayor of Sorrento, Massimo Coppola, the Ministry of Culture’s Director of Museums, Massimo Osanna, the President of the Correale Museum, Gaetano Mauro, and Aureliano Cicala, General Manager of MSC Cruises.

The MSC Foundation's support has been instrumental in the meticulous restoration and development of the new Archaeological Section, showcasing our commitment to preserving and promoting Sorrento's rich historical legacy.

Curated by the Naples Metropolitan Area Board of the Ministry of Culture for Archaeology, the Fine Arts and the Landscape, the Archaeological Section boasts an extraordinary collection of treasures from ancient Surrentum. These artefacts, displayed in chronological and topographical order, offer visitors an immersive experience of the city's past. The section includes significant pieces from local excavations, individual donations and entire collections, providing a comprehensive view of Sorrento's history that pays full tribute to its rich cultural legacy.

Gaetano Mauro, President of the Correale Museum, commented: “The Correale Museum aims to be a welcoming place for young people, who are our future, but also to engage with a public of all ages and nationalities, advancing our commitment to conservation, cultural enhancement, education and social awareness. We thank the MSC Foundation for making this possible.”

Captain Gianluigi Aponte, the Founder of the MSC Group and Chair of the MSC Foundation Board, has a personal connection with Sorrento as his hometown, adding special significance to the MSC Foundation's involvement in this project. His dedication to preserving the city’s heritage is reflected in the Foundation’s support for the Correale Museum, which aims to ensure that Sorrento’s rich history continues to be accessible to future generations.

MSC Foundation Executive Director Daniela Picco explained: “The MSC Foundation’s work extends beyond marine and environmental conservation programmes to restore the health of our planet, and beyond supporting vulnerable and disaster-struck populations. It also includes a commitment to rediscover, conserve and take care of our cultural, artistic and historical heritage and local traditions. Because history helps us understand who we are today while offering us the tools to build a better future.

“The Correale Museum shows the same commitment in presenting a wide variety of archaeological finds and exhibits that bring this region’s thousands of years of history to life. A region mentioned as far back as Homer and a pearl of Mediterranean tourism today, but for centuries also a beacon of excellence in shipbuilding, art and craftsmanship.”

The MSC Foundation's support for the Correale Museum has facilitated several crucial initiatives, including an exhibition on angels, the restoration of various works of art, and the installation of a new lighting and audio system. These enhancements are revolutionising the museum experience, engaging visitors in a sensory journey through Sorrento's fascinating history.