Geological and Cultural Heritage: Dissemination Experiences in Tuscany

heritage

Communication Geological and Cultural Heritage: Dissemination Experiences in Tuscany

Sonia La Felice 1,2,*, Tsegaye Abebe 3, Andrea Aquino 4 , Simone Landi 2, Marco Lezzerini 4 and Claudia Principe 1,2

1 Istituto di Geoscienze e Georisorse, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 1 – 56124 Pisa, Italy 2 Associazione La Nuova Limonaia, c/o Museo di Storia Naturale, Università di Pisa, via Roma 79 – 56011 Calci (PI), Italy 3 Adhana Geological Consultancy Service, Via M.L. King 9 – 56021 Cascina (PI), Italy 4 Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, Università di Pisa, Via Santa Maria 53 – 56126 Pisa, Italy * Correspondence: [email protected]

Received: 30 June 2019; Accepted: 23 July 2019; Published: 25 July 2019

Abstract: We report on some recent experiences of scientific dissemination activities on geomaterials carried out by a network of scientific organizations in Tuscany (Italy). The primary message we want to disseminate is that even the most “insignificant” rock (e.g., those constituting the bar or kitchen counter-tops) stores in their interior very useful information beyond the beautiful colors and their aesthetic appearance. These rocks can tell stories of very old geological periods on how they were formed. Their structures, texture and shape, as well as their chemistry and mineralogy provide clues to the reconstruction of geological events. Moreover, the rocks used in urban architecture and monuments are an inexhaustible archive containing a lot of historical and economic information on the development of a city and its surrounding area. The role of geologists, in this context, is to provide to the public, in clear and engaging language, the tools necessary to solve the puzzle (i.e., identify the most important types of rocks and rock-forming minerals, know their physico-chemical properties, their textures and structures and discover the environments in which they formed). A specific objective of this work is to stimulate an exchange between various research organizations (universities, public research institutions, museums, associations, etc.) and the civil society.

Keywords: building stone; geomaterials; urban petrography; cultural heritage; scientific dissemination; Tuscany; Italy

1. Introduction

1.1. Public Perception of Geoscience Although the issues related to the past and the future of the Earth are crucial in the scientific debate and fundamental to building a sustainable development, the Earth Science studies at University level show a lack of appeal, with the number of students enrolled generally lower than the needs, even in the labor market. This situation is partly linked to the high school education curriculum, which is not very dense in Earth Science themes. Also, according to some studies, (see King, 2012 [1] and references therein) there are a number of difficulties encountered by students in learning geoscience, such as: (i) the memorization of complex terminologies, (ii) the spatial literacy, (iii) the three dimensional visualization, (iv) the understanding of depth of geological time as compared with humans relatively short existence, (v) the speed of processes—human observers may have difficulties perceiving changes in rocks and land features over time—and (vi) the abstract concepts, which are intangible, such as

Heritage 2019, 2, 2171–2182; doi:10.3390/heritage2030131 www.mdpi.com/journal/heritage Heritage 2019, 2 2172 the structure of Earth’s interior. In this regard, the Geological Society of America (GSA) released a position statement [2] in which it declared the importance of the teaching Earth Science at lower school level. The document also evidenced the importance of the Earth Science teacher’s qualification, which constantly needs updating. Natural processes and resources affect our economy, our security and the sustainability of our environment and the GSA statement highlights the responsibility of the scientific community to transmit scientific knowledge and skills to citizens so that they can make more informed decisions. In order to support and strengthen the existing institutions engaged in the dissemination of scientific culture, increase university enrollment in scientific courses, contribute to teacher training in developing innovative tools and methodologies to improve the teaching of Earth Science and student careers, the MIUR (Italian Minister of Education, University and Research) promotes national projects in which schools, universities and national research centers are involved (e.g., “Piano Lauree Scientifiche” [3], “Alternanza scuola-lavoro” [4], “Diffusione della cultura scientifica" (Lg. n.113/1991) [5], “Settimana della Cultura Scientifica e Tecnologica” [6]). In addition, the Italian Geological Survey promotes dissemination activities such as seminars and workshops including teaching courses at high school level, with the aim to promote Earth Sciences disciplines [7]. Furthermore, the European Commission support “European Researchers’ Night” [8], a public event during which the researchers explain how they can contribute to the development of modern society. Moreover, various non-profit associations promoting scientific and technological culture operate in the national and regional territories (e.g., Ass. Settimana del Pianeta Terra [9], Ass. La Nuova Limonaia [10] and Ludoteca Scientifica (LUS) [11]).

1.2. How to Attract Public Interest Rocks are perfect witnesses of geological events at diﬀerent scales and of the Earth’s history. In fact, rocks existed since the beginning of the Universe and will continue to exist in the future. For instance, meteorites are among the oldest rocks in the solar system and can tell us about the age and formation of the early Earth. Rocks store very useful information which provide evidence on how plate tectonic movements, volcanism, weathering and erosion agents have modiﬁed the planet for millions of years. They are the only long-lasting materials capable of recording information that allows us to reconstruct not only the Earth’s history, but also the evolution of living beings (e.g., fossils) and of humans (e.g., artifacts, works of art). Due to this unique feature, we believe that rocks could be a good starting point for bringing the public closer to geology. Tuscany is located in a geological, historical and cultural context that can provide a perfect setting for the staging of the “tale” that the rocks can tell us. In fact, Tuscany is one of the regions in Italy richest in natural stones. Apuan Alps (Figure1), in particular are well known in the world for the most famous marbles quarries [12–14]. There are approximately 130 active quarries today, 2/3 of which are concentrated in the Carrara area. The Apuo-Versilian district is highly active in the quarrying activity sector and world leading in marble and granite (rocks in general) cutting, carving and polishing technologies [15] (Figure2). Heritage 2019, 2, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 12 Heritage 2019, 2 2173 Heritage 2019, 2, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 12

Figure 1. Panoramic view of the white marble quarries in the Apuan Alps (Carrara, Italy). Figure 1. Panoramic view of the white marble quarries in the Apuan Alps (Carrara, Italy). The Apuo-VersilianFigure 1. Panoramic district view is of highly the white active marble in the quarries quarrying in the activity Apuan Alps sector (Carrara, and world Italy). leading in marbleThe and Apuo-Versilian granite (rocks districtin general) is highly cutting, active carving in the quarryingand polishing activity technologies sector and world[15] (Figure leading 2). in marble and granite (rocks in general) cutting, carving and polishing technologies [15] (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Overview of marble manufacturing plant, Savema S.p.a. at Pietrasanta (Lucca, Italy). FigureFigure 2. 2.Overview Overview ofof marblemarble manufacturing plant, plant, Sa Savemavema S.p.a. S.p.a. at atPietrasanta Pietrasanta (Lucca, (Lucca, Italy). Italy).

Also,Also, the the art art and and architecture architecture ofof Tuscany havehave gonegone through through an an articulated articulated and and complex complex story, story, whichwhichAlso, commenced commenced the art and at at the the architecture beginning beginning of ofof Tuscanycivilization have an andd gone continued, continued, through without without an articulated inte interruption,rruption, and to complex theto the present present story, day,whichday, through commencedthrough key key periods periods at the beginningsuch such asas thethe of Roman civilization era,era, thethe and Middle Middle continued, Ages Ages withoutand and the the Renaissance interruption, Renaissance (Figureto (Figure the 3). present 3). day, through key periods such as the Roman era, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance (Figure3).

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Figure 3. Views of Florence, main town of Tuscany (Italy).(Italy). Examples of the widespread use of the ornamental stones in arts and architecture from historichistoric buildingsbuildings to marblemarble statues.statues. Image Image from: https:https://commons.wikimedia.org/w//commons.wikimedia.org/wikiiki/File:Collage_Firenze.jpg./File:Collage_Firenze.jpg.

Here, therefore, the public has the fortune of a great availability of rocks (both as a raw material Here, therefore, the public has the fortune of a great availability of rocks (both as a raw material and as a building material in the urban architecture and works of art), but generally appreciates them and as a building material in the urban architecture and works of art), but generally appreciates them only from an aesthetical point of view and does not observe them through the eyes of a geologist. only from an aesthetical point of view and does not observe them through the eyes of a geologist. The role of a geologist, in this context, is to clearly communicate to non-scientists, including students, The role of a geologist, in this context, is to clearly communicate to non-scientists, including students, the importance of the geological heritage. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to use very attractive the importance of the geological heritage. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to use very attractive dissemination approaches that are able to lead visitors to live a direct experience. The geologist helps dissemination approaches that are able to lead visitors to live a direct experience. The geologist helps to closely observe the rocks and explaining their technical and physico-chemical properties allows to closely observe the rocks and explaining their technical and physico-chemical properties allows the the comprehension of complex rock formation processes that are otherwise difficult to imagine. comprehension of complex rock formation processes that are otherwise difficult to imagine. For our dissemination activities, we use the rocks that people find the most fascinating: the so- For our dissemination activities, we use the rocks that people find the most fascinating: the so-called called ornamental stones, which are commonly used mainly in the fields of building, monumental ornamental stones, which are commonly used mainly in the fields of building, monumental and and funerary. The commercial nomenclature of ornamental stones is increasingly abandoning any funerary. The commercial nomenclature of ornamental stones is increasingly abandoning any reference reference to their scientific classification by extensive use of imaginative and exotic names that not to their scientific classification by extensive use of imaginative and exotic names that not providing providing indications on the nature of the rocks and their places of origin, but are of considerable indications on the nature of the rocks and their places of origin, but are of considerable advertising advertising effect (e.g., Emerald Pearl, Magic Black, Sky Gray, New Tropical, Tiffany) (Figure 4). effect (e.g., Emerald Pearl, Magic Black, Sky Gray, New Tropical, Tiffany) (Figure4). From a commercial point of view, the main characteristics that define an ornamental stone and its quality are represented by the color, the ability to be polished, the grain size, the texture, the mechanical resistance, the availability, the shape and dimensions of the extractable blocks. The commercial classification of stone materials is traditionally divided into four categories (Marbles, Granites, Stones, Travertines) codified by the UNI EN 12670:2019 standard [16]. The classification of rocks in these four major groups represents the division between “soft” and “hard” rocks, essentially differentiated on the basis of their different hardness when cutting and polishing regardless of their real geological origin. In fact, for example, in the group of “Marbles”, all crystalline rocks that are as soft (Mohs hardness 3–4) as calcite, dolomite and serpentine, and could be easily polished, are included. Limestones, serpentinites, marble itself and many others “soft” rocks of metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary origins are included. Even the category of “Granites” include all phaneritic rocks that have a medium-high hardness (Mohs hardness 6–7), like quartz, feldspar and feldspatoid, and that are well polishable. Many metamorphic rocks such as gneisses, migmatites, pegmatites, beside a vast variety of igneous

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Figure 3. Views of Florence, main town of Tuscany (Italy). Examples of the widespread use of the ornamental stones in arts and architecture from historic buildings to marble statues. Image from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Collage_Firenze.jpg.

Here, therefore, the public has the fortune of a great availability of rocks (both as a raw material and as a building material in the urban architecture and works of art), but generally appreciates them only from an aesthetical point of view and does not observe them through the eyes of a geologist. The role of a geologist, in this context, is to clearly communicate to non-scientists, including students, the importance of the geological heritage. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to use very attractive dissemination approaches that are able to lead visitors to live a direct experience. The geologist helps to closely observe the rocks and explaining their technical and physico-chemical properties allows the comprehension of complex rock formation processes that are otherwise difficult to imagine. HeritageFor2019 our, 2 dissemination activities, we use the rocks that people find the most fascinating: the so-2175 called ornamental stones, which are commonly used mainly in the fields of building, monumental and funerary. The commercial nomenclature of ornamental stones is increasingly abandoning any intrusive rock, from granite to gabbro, are also included in the “Granite” category. On the other hand, reference to their scientific classification by extensive use of imaginative and exotic names that not geologicalproviding classiﬁcationindications on of the rocks nature is basedof the onrocks their an formationd their places processes of origin, (igneous, but are metamorphicof considerable and sedimentary) and their composition and structure. advertisingHeritage 2019 ,effect 2, x FOR (e.g., PEER Emerald REVIEW Pearl, Magic Black, Sky Gray, New Tropical, Tiffany) (Figure 4).5 of 12

Figure 4. Examples of commercial fancy names of considerable advertising effectiveness (e.g., Calacatta Cielo, Corteccia, Fusion Wow, Jurassic Brown, Sequoia Brown and Dalmata). Large format of blocks at Marmomac International trade fair (Verona, Italy, 2015).

From a commercial point of view, the main characteristics that define an ornamental stone and its quality are represented by the color, the ability to be polished, the grain size, the texture, the mechanical resistance, the availability, the shape and dimensions of the extractable blocks. The commercial classification of stone materials is traditionally divided into four categories (Marbles, Granites, Stones, Travertines) codified by the UNI EN 12670:2019 standard [16]. The classification of rocks in these four major groups represents the division between “soft” and “hard” rocks, essentially differentiated on the basis of their different hardness when cutting and polishing regardless of their real geological origin. In fact, for example, in the group of “Marbles”, all crystalline rocks that are as soft (Mohs hardness 3–4) as calcite, dolomite and serpentine, and could be easily polished, are included. Limestones, serpentinites, marble itself and many others “soft” rocks of metamorphic,

igneous and sedimentary origins are included. Even the category of “Granites” include all phaneritic

rocksFigure that4. haveExamples a medium-high of commercial hardness fancy names (Mohs of hard considerableness 6–7), advertising like quartz, eﬀectiveness feldspar and (e.g., feldspatoid, Calacatta andCielo, that Corteccia,are well Fusionpolishable. Wow, Many Jurassic metamorphic Brown, Sequoia rocks Brown such and as Dalmata). gneisses, Large migmatites, format of pegmatites, blocks at besideMarmomac a vast Internationalvariety of igneous trade fair intrusive (Verona, rock, Italy, 2015).from granite to gabbro, are also included in the “Granite” category. On the other hand, geological classification of rocks is based on their formation processes (igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary) and their composition and structure. For the purpose of our work, we have collected over 400 types of ornamental stones mainly through For the purpose of our work, we have collected over 400 types of ornamental stones mainly donationsthrough donations from marble from workers marbleand workers companies and companie operatings operating in the stone in the industry stone industry of the Apuo-Versilian of the Apuo- district,Versilian Verona district, district Verona and district other international and other international companies contactedcompanies at contacted international at international meetings for naturalmeetings stone for industry natural stone (e.g., industry Marmomac, (e.g., Verona, Marmomac, Italy) Verona, (Figure 5Italy)). (Figure 5).

Figure 5. Selection, collection and storage stages of ornamental stone materials from marble Figure 5. Selection, collection and storage stages of ornamental stone materials from marble companies companies of the Apuo-Versilian district. of the Apuo-Versilian district. For some activities, we have been concerned with the rocks that are part of our architectural heritage, such as those used in historic buildings, churches and city walls. This is quite common in other countries. For instance, both in the U.S.A. and other European countries, universities commonly promote scientific tours to discover the geology of building stones in metropolitan areas [17,18].

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Heritage 2019For, some2, x FOR activities, PEER REVIEW we have been concerned with the rocks that are part of our architectural6 of 12 heritage, such as those used in historic buildings, churches and city walls. This is quite common in Recently,other countries. the Department For instance, of Earth both inSciences the U.S.A. of the and University other European of Turin countries, (Italy) universities implemented commonly a mobile applicationpromote scientiﬁcTOURinSTONE tours to [19] discover to promote the geology and enhance of building the urban stones geological in metropolitan heritage areas of Turin. [17,18 The]. appRecently, is an interactive the Department city map of Earth with Sciences 25 places, of the where University historical of Turin and (Italy) petrographic implemented information a mobile is available,application in order TOURinSTONE to present an [19 overview] to promote of the and ma enhancein ornamental the urban stones geological used in heritage historic ofbuildings, Turin. churchesThe app and is an city interactive center streets. city map with 25 places, where historical and petrographic information is available, in order to present an overview of the main ornamental stones used in historic buildings, 2. Disseminationschurches and city Experiences center streets.

2. DisseminationsWe have experienced Experiences various type of outreach, training and dissemination activities, such as scientific exhibition with guided tours, thematic conferences, city walks, training courses and We have experienced various type of outreach, training and dissemination activities, such as workshops. All the activities were open to students of all levels, including academic audiences, scientiﬁc exhibition with guided tours, thematic conferences, city walks, training courses and workshops. interested individuals and experts, and the audience was always very large. Some examples are All the activities were open to students of all levels, including academic audiences, interested individuals illustratedand experts, below. and the audience was always very large. Some examples are illustrated below.

2.1.2.1. “Anche “Anche le lePietre Pietre Parlano” Parlano” Exhibition Exhibition “Anche“Anche le lePietre Pietre Parlano Parlano”” (i.e., (i.e., Even Even the the Stones Stones Talk) waswas anan exhibition exhibition hosted hosted at at Villa Villa Borbone Borbone (Viareggio,(Viareggio, LU) LU) [20], [20], conceived and and realized realized by by the th Institutee Institute of Geoscience of Geoscience and Georesources and Georesources (IGG-CNR), (IGG- CNR),of some of some 400 specimens 400 specimens of rocks of (30rocks cm (3030 cm cm × polished30 cm polished tiles) normally tiles) normally used as ornamentalused as ornamental stones × stonesquarried quarried from aroundfrom around the world the and world predominantly and predom frominantly Italy. from The tiles Italy. are The labeled tiles with are commerciallabeled with commercialname, scientiﬁc name, name, scientific country name, of origincountry and of age origin (where and available) age (where (Figure available)6). (Figure 6).

FigureFigure 6. 6.“Anche“Anche le le pietre pietre parlano” parlano” exhibition ofof over over 400 400 polished polished tiles tiles of ornamentalof ornamental stones stones hosted hosted at at Villa BorboneBorbone (Viareggio, (Viareggio, Lucca). Lucca).

The exhibitions were supported by 20 explanatory panels, illustrating the petrogenetic processes, the scientific rock classification and specific references to some of the tiles on display (Figure 7); moreover, the visitors enjoyed an expert guided tour (Figure 8).

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The exhibitions were supported by 20 explanatory panels, illustrating the petrogenetic processes, the scientific rock classification and specific references to some of the tiles on display (Figure7); moreover,Heritage 2019 the, 2, x visitorsFOR PEER enjoyed REVIEW an expert guided tour (Figure8). 7 of 12

Figure 7. Some examples of panels used during the exhibition explaining the geological processes that take place on Earth and in particular, those that are directly linked to the formation of rocks exposed in the exhibition.

FigureThe exhibition 7. Some examples recorded of panelsalmost used a thousand during the visito exhibirstion in explainingtwo weeks. the After geological this greatprocesses success, that the Figure 7. Some examples of panels used during the exhibition explaining the geological processes that eventtake was place hosted on Earth first and at Villain particular, Bertelli those (Forte that de arie Marmi, directly linkedLU) in to the the formationframework of rocksof “Che exposed Forte, la take place on Earth and in particular, those that are directly linked to the formation of rocks exposed in Scienza!”(i.e.,in the exhibition. Science is Cool!) a festival of scientific culture (800 visitors in two week) and successivelythe exhibition. at a high school in Boario Terme (Brescia, Italy). The exhibition recorded almost a thousand visitors in two weeks. After this great success, the event was hosted first at Villa Bertelli (Forte dei Marmi, LU) in the framework of “Che Forte, la Scienza!”(i.e., Science is Cool!) a festival of scientific culture (800 visitors in two week) and successively at a high school in Boario Terme (Brescia, Italy).

Figure 8. Although the visit was illustrated by explanatory panels, the best way to attract the more Figure 8. Although the visit was illustrated by explanatory panels, the best way to attract the more distracted public to the scientific topic was to have an explanation by an expert guide, a geologist who distracted public to the scientific topic was to have an explanation by an expert guide, a geologist who can interact with the public, who is able to use clearer or deeper explanations according to the target can interact with the public, who is able to use clearer or deeper explanations according to the target audience. (A) Villa Borbone (Viareggio, Lucca); (B,C) Villa Bertelli (Forte dei Marmi, Lucca). audience. (A) Villa Borbone (Viareggio, Lucca); (B,C) Villa Bertelli (Forte dei Marmi, Lucca). Figure 8. Although the visit was illustrated by explanatory panels, the best way to attract the more 2.2. "Ludotecadistracted Scientifica"public to the Workshops scientific topic was to have an explanation by an expert guide, a geologist who The exhibition recorded almost a thousand visitors in two weeks. After this great success, canTwo interact workshops with the for public, children who haveis able been to use designed clearer or anddeeper created explanations by IGG according - CNR into thecollaboration target the event was hosted first at Villa Bertelli (Forte dei Marmi, LU) in the framework of “Che Forte, with audience.the Department (A) Villa ofBorbone Earth (Viareggio,Sciences of Lucca); the Univ (B,Cersity) Villa Bertelliof Pisa (Forte(DST-UniPi). dei Marmi, The Lucca). workshops have la Scienza!”(i.e., Science is Cool!) a festival of scientific culture (800 visitors in two week) and been hosted by the XVI and XVII editions of the “Ludoteca Scientifica” (i.e., Science Toy Library) an 2.2. "Ludoteca Scientifica" Workshops successivelyinteractive scientific at a high exhibition school in Boariopromoted Terme by (Brescia,the Department Italy). of Physics “Enrico Fermi” of the UniversityTwo workshops of Pisa, the for National children Institutehave been of designed Optics (CNR) and created and other by IGG scientific - CNR institutionsin collaboration and 2.2. “Ludoteca Scientifica” Workshops withassociations the Department operating of in Earth Pisa (e Sciences.g., Ass. ofLa the Nuova Univ Limonaia).ersity of Pisa (DST-UniPi). The workshops have beenTwo 1)hosted Even workshops bythe the Rocks XVI for Talkand children XVII. Based editions have on the been of experience the designed “Lud otecaof the and Scientifica” exhibition, created by (i.e.,we IGG decided Science - CNR toToy create in Library) collaboration a more an withinteractivespecific the Departmentlaboratory scientific for exhibition of schoolchildren Earth Sciences promoted during of theby Universitythewhich, Department in ofaddition Pisa of (DST-UniPi). Physicsto showing “Enrico Theornamental Fermi” workshops ofstone the have beenUniversitymaterials, hosted it of bywas Pisa, the possible XVIthe andNational to touch XVII editionsInstitutethe rocks of ofand theOp explore “Ludotecatics (CNR) their Scientifica” physicaland other and scientific (i.e., chemical Science institutions properties Toy Library) and an interactiveassociationsthe main geological scientific operating exhibition processes in Pisa (e promoted th.g.,rough Ass. Lasome by Nuova the game-experiments. Department Limonaia). of Physics By observing “Enrico Fermi” various of therocks, University the ofchildren Pisa,1) theEven learnt National the to Rocks recognize Institute Talk . of theirBased Optics structures on (CNR) the experience andand otherthe ofmain scientific the rock-formingexhibition, institutions we minerals decided and associations andto create to discover a operating more inspecificwhether Pisa (e.g., laboratorythe Ass.rock Laformed for Nuova schoolchildren beneath Limonaia). the Earth’sduring surfacewhich, byin slowaddition cooling to showingof a magma ornamental body, or stoneby a materials,volcanic(1) Even eruption, it was the possible Rocks if it is Talk to composed touch. Based the on ofrocks thefragment and experience explores of other of their the rocks physical exhibition, previously and we chemical decided eroded properties toor create has been and a more specificthetransformed main laboratory geological under for the processes schoolchildren ground thfollowingrough during some an which, ingame-experiments.crease in additionin pressure to showing Byand observing temperature. ornamental various 2) stone Therocks, materials,Pisa’s the itStoneschildren was possible: a learnt multidisciplinary toto touchrecognize the workshop rockstheir andstructures for explore any and level their the ofphysical mainstudent, rock-forming and to understand chemical minerals properties the urban and toandgeology discover the mainof whether the rock formed beneath the Earth’s surface by slow cooling of a magma body, or by a volcanic eruption, if it is composed of fragments of other rocks previously eroded or has been transformed under the ground following an increase in pressure and temperature. 2) The Pisa’s Stones: a multidisciplinary workshop for any level of student, to understand the urban geology of

Heritage 2019, 2 2178 geological processes through some game-experiments. By observing various rocks, the children learnt to recognize their structures and the main rock-forming minerals and to discover whether the rock formed beneath the Earth’s surface by slow cooling of a magma body, or by a volcanic eruption, if it is composed of fragments of other rocks previously eroded or has been transformed under the groundHeritage 2019 following, 2, x FORan PEER increase REVIEW in pressure and temperature. (2) The Pisa’s Stones: a multidisciplinary8 of 12 workshop for any level of student, to understand the urban geology of Pisa and its territory by studying Pisa and its territory by studying the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics and the main the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics and the main physical properties of the rocks used physical properties of the rocks used in the monumental building of Pisa. The workshop is in the monumental building of Pisa. The workshop is accompanied by a walk through Piazza dei accompanied by a walk through Piazza dei Miracoli (where the famous Leaning Tower is located) Miracoliand the (wherewalkway the on famous the ancient Leaning City Tower Walls is of located) Pisa, which and the has walkway recently onopened the ancient to the Citypublic, Walls to of Pisa,discover which their has "stones" recently that opened tell of to journeys, the public, imports, to discover plunders their and "stones" local quarrying that tell of activities journeys, (Figure imports, plunders9). and local quarrying activities (Figure9).

Figure 9. (A) One of the most famous monuments in the world: the Leaning Tower (Piazza dei Figure 9. (A) One of the most famous monuments in the world: the Leaning Tower (Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa), (B) a glimpse of the multilayer ancient City Walls of Pisa, (C) the workshops related Miracoli, Pisa), (B) a glimpse of the multilayer ancient City Walls of Pisa, (C) the workshops to commercial stones and architecture of the city are hosted by the “Ludoteca Scientifica” at related to commercial stones and architecture of the city are hosted by the “Ludoteca Scientiﬁca” “Cittadella Galileiana” (Pisa). at “Cittadella Galileiana” (Pisa). In literature, there are several papers describing in detail the main stones used in Pisa [21–24] and Inon literature,the medieval there stones are several of the western papers describingTuscany [25–31]. in detail the main stones used in Pisa [21–24] and on the medieval stones of the western Tuscany [25–31]. 2.3. “Earth Planet Week” National Program 2.3. “Earth Planet Week” National Program In the framework of “Settimana del Pianeta Terra”, a national program for the diffusion and disseminationIn the framework of the Earth of “ SettimanaSciences, we del organized Pianeta Terrasome”, activities a national such program as: a) walking for the in di ﬀPisausion and and disseminationLucca to recognize of the the Earth stones Sciences, used as building we organized materials some in the activities center suchof Pisa as: during (a) walking the Middle in Pisa Age and Lucca(DST-UniPi) to recognize [31]; b)the temporary stones usedexhibition as building of orname materialsntal stones in the at centerthe research of Pisa area during of Pisa the (IGG- Middle AgeCNR); (DST-UniPi) c) thematic [conference31]; (b) temporary and city walk exhibition titled: ofTerritory, ornamental Geo-Resources stones at theand researchCultural Heritage: area of Pisa (IGG-CNR);Examples of (c)“Urban thematic Petrography” conference in and Sicily city and walk Tuscany, titled: Territory,IGG-CNR Geo-Resourcesin collaboration and with Cultural the Heritage:Museum Examplesof Mineralogy of “Urban (DiSTeM, Petrography” UniPa) (Figure in Sicily 10). and Tuscany, IGG-CNR in collaboration with the Museum of Mineralogy (DiSTeM, UniPa) (Figure 10).

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Figure 10. Some activities of “Urban Petrography” in the framework of “Settimana del Pianeta Terra”: Figure 10. Some activities of “Urban Petrography” in the framework of “Settimana del Pianeta Terra”: 1) a walk in the center of Pisa was organized to recognize the stones used as building materials; (A) (1)St. Nicholas a walk inchurch the centerfaçade shows of Pisa a patchwork was organized of Monte to Pisano recognize marble, the quartzite stones usedand black as building limestone materials; ([31].A) St. A marble Nicholas intarsia church on the façade façade showsillustrates a patchworka Fibonacci abacus of Monte [32]; Pisano(B) the Monte marble, Pisano quartzite marbles and black limestoneused for building [31]. the A marbleMonumental intarsia Cemetery; on the 2) façade activities illustrates in collaborati a Fibonaccion with University abacus of [32 Palermo,]; (B) the Monte PisanoSicily: ( marblesC) donation used of fora collection building of the about Monumental 200 samples Cemetery; of ornamental (2) activities stones and in temporary collaboration with Universityexhibition at of Museum Palermo, of Mineralogy Sicily: (C) (DiSTeM, donation UniPa); of a collection (D) a guided of about tour of 200 a baroque samples church of ornamental (Chiesa stones anddell'Immacolata temporary exhibitionConcezione) at in Museum Palermo ofto Mineralogyrecognize the (DiSTeM, ornamental UniPa); stones ( Dpresented) a guided during tour the of a baroque churchthematic (Chiesa conferences dell’Immacolata (E). Concezione) in Palermo to recognize the ornamental stones presented during the thematic conferences (E). 2.4. “European Researchers’ Night” International Event (Marie-Sklodowska-Curie-Actions)

2.4. “EuropeanDuring the Researchers’ international Night” “European International Researchers’ Event Night (Marie-Sklodowska-Curie-Actions)” in Tuscany [33], a “treasure hunt” for children was organized at the Villa Borbone garden (Viareggio). The young aspiring geologists were capableDuring to identify the international the rocks they “ Europeanfound while Researchers’ playing. Night” in Tuscany [33], a “treasure hunt” for children was organized at the Villa Borbone garden (Viareggio). The young aspiring geologists were capable2.5. “Alternanza to identify Scuola-Lavoro” the rocks theyMinisterial found Training while Project playing. “Alternanza Scuola-Lavoro” (i.e., School-Work Alternation) is an innovative didactic 2.5.methodology “Alternanza established Scuola-Lavoro” by MIUR Ministerial (L. n. 53/2003, Training D.L. Projectn. 77/2005) for high school students, in order to bring“Alternanza young people Scuola-Lavoro closer to the” world (i.e., School-Work of work, alternating Alternation) training is anperiods innovative between didactic school methodologyand establishedpartner companies by MIUR or other (L. n.organizations 53/2003, D.L.[4]. In n. the 77 framework/2005) for of high this schoolprogram students, the students in order(Liceo to bring Classico “Giosuè Carducci, Viareggio, Lucca), using 10 cm × 10 cm sized ornamental stone slabs, had young people closer to the world of work, alternating training periods between school and partner to classify the samples assigned to them according to the commercial and geological criteria an then companies or other organizations [4]. In the framework of this program the students (Liceo Classico they had to build a small database and make an oral presentation of the project at school. “Giosuè Carducci, Viareggio, Lucca), using 10 cm 10 cm sized ornamental stone slabs, had to classify × the2.6. samples CoRRo Project assigned for Training to them Course according to the commercial and geological criteria an then they had to build a small database and make an oral presentation of the project at school. CoRRo project (i.e., Know and Recognize the Rocks, acronym) (funded by Fondazione Banco del Monte di Lucca) is a training course for medium and high school teachers, which is still ongoing. 2.6. CoRRo Project for Training Course CoRRo project (i.e., Know and Recognize the Rocks, acronym) (funded by Fondazione Banco del Monte di Lucca) is a training course for medium and high school teachers, which is still ongoing. Heritage 2019, 2 2180

The project aims to create a didactic collection of rock samples (hand specimen and thin section) classiﬁed and described by their origin, genesis, age, mineralogical content, scientiﬁc name and commercial name. The training course will be carried out with an innovative didactic approach based on research technologies normally used in university courses of Earth Sciences.

3. Conclusions Italy represents a symbiosis between landscape and culture, between history and its artistic, architectural, monumental and museum heritage. With our experiences of scientific dissemination, we would like to bring the public closer to the Geological Heritage using both the cultural and artistic heritage and the commercial world. In order to transfer our scientific knowledge, we have experimented with different dissemination activities, and found that direct contact with an expert guide capable to modulate the language has been one of the most successful methods. The main message was that rocks carry spatial and temporal information related to geological processes. The role of a geologist, in this context, is to provide to the public, in very clear and engaging language, the tools necessary to solve the puzzle (i.e., learn to identify the most important rock-forming minerals, know their physical and chemical properties, and discover the environments in which they formed). In our experience, the interaction of researchers from different institutions with their multidisciplinary skills has been fundamental to affirm the idea that scientific research and technological innovation are crucial to making geological and cultural heritage and knowledge easily available and widely disseminated. In the near future, we would like to make the exhibition of the ornamental stones collection permanent. This would create a repository of rocks available for dissemination activities at all levels, shareable with other educational and research institutions that deal with scientific dissemination in our territory. The project plan is to add the microscopic description on appropriate informative panels and to conceive thematic educational workshops. Finally, the possibility of training young guides among high school or university students could be very useful.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, C.P.,S.L.F., and M.L.; Methodology, C.P.,T.A., S.L.F., M.L.; Investigation, T.A., S.L., A.A., S.L.F.; Data Curation, T.A., S.L., A.A.; Writing-Original Draft, S.L.F., T.A.; Writing-Review & Editing, S.L.F., T.A., M.L., and C.P.; Visualization, S.L.F.; Supervision, C.P., M.L.; Project Administration, C.P., M.L.; Funding Acquisition, C.P. Funding: Bright (European Researchers’ Night in Tuscany) has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, under grant agreement Bright n. 818515. CoRRo project was funded by Fondazione Banco del Monte di Lucca. Part of the ornamental stones was given by: CosMaVe - Pietrasanta (LU); Centro Servizi Marmo s.c.a.r.l. - Volargne di Dolcè (VR); Sergio Chiesa - CNR, IDPA; EllebiMarmi s.r.l. - Pietrasanta (LU); Savema s.p.a. - Pietrasanta (LU); V. Fontanili s.r.l.- Carrara (MS). Acknowledgments: The authors would like to thank for their kindly collaboration: M.M. Massai (President of “Associazione La Nuova Limonaia”) Department of Physics - University of Pisa, Italy; S. Giudici (Director of “Museo degli Strumenti di Fisica” and “Ludoteca scientifica”) Department of Physics -University of Pisa, Italy; S. Calabrese, L. Randazzo and G. Montana Department of Earth and Marine Science, University of Palermo, Italy; the Municipality of Forte dei Marmi (LU), Italy; the Municipality of Viareggio (LU), Italy. The authors would like to thank the three reviewers for their helpful comments on the manuscript. Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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