Ephemeral Design for Archaeology: An Experimentation in the Archaeological Park of Egnazia

This paper presents an investigation based on an agreement between the Polytechnic University of Bari and the Archaeological Park of Egnazia. The objectives of this collaboration are to define solutions for enhancing the accessibility of the archaeological park, including a protection and a covering system for the entrance to the ancient cryptoporticus and a removable, repositionable fencing system for excavation areas, integrated with lighting and information systems. The methodology involves framing the contemporary relationship between design and archaeology by analyzing existing theoretical literature and identifying recent case studies in Italy and broad. In a second phase, the paper will focus on the Archaeological Park of Egnazia, considering both as a part of a broader landscape system and as a specific site for experimentation. The findings contribute to the development of a methodological framework that categorizes interventions based on the key principles of temporariness, flexibility, adaptability, and sustainability. The ultimate goal is to define design strategies for archaeological parks that address the challenge of integrating visitor accessibility with the requirements of excavation, protection and conservation.