On January 29–30, 2024, the PRIN KNOT – Knowledge of Things project officially began with a kick-off meeting held at the Museo delle Civiltà (MUCIV) in Rome. The event marked the start of a multidisciplinary research initiative dedicated to rethinking Indigenous American heritage preserved in Italy through historical, anthropological, scientific, and digital approaches. The meeting brought together project partners from CNR ISPC, the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and representatives of the Museo delle Civiltà. Over the two days, participants discussed the project’s objectives, methodology, and case studies, establishing a shared framework for collaboration and outlining the planned research activities.

The kick-off meeting also provided an opportunity to align scientific goals with museum perspectives, reinforcing the project’s commitment to responsible research, dialogue with cultural institutions, and engagement with Indigenous communities. This first gathering laid the groundwork for coordinated activities, including archival research, diagnostic investigations, digital documentation, and the development of the KNOT Virtual Museum.