In the field of preventive conservation, in line with European regulations, microclimate monitoring supports scientific analysis and conservation activities. The microclimate includes all environmental conditions that can affect the preservation of both movable and immovable artworks.
Except for damages caused directly by humans, such as acts of vandalism, the deterioration of artifacts is often linked to the microclimate and its variations. To understand how the microclimate might cause or have caused damage to the works, the Scientific Laboratories design specific monitoring activities structured in three phases: (i) identification of purpose, (ii) installation of the equipment, (iii) reporting. In the first phase, the artworks’ vulnerability and the characteristics of the location where they are housed are analyzed. Then, the most suitable equipment for monitoring is selected, along with the optimal location for installation. Finally, periodic reports are provided to ensure coordinated work between scientific professionals, conservators, and stakeholders.
CASE STUDY
Historical residences
Reggia di Venaria Reale
In 2013, a program dedicated to thermohygrometric monitoring was implemented for some rooms of the Reggia di Venaria. Over 20 rooms are currently being monitored: not only the rooms that are open to the public for permanent and temporary exhibitions, but also some storage areas where collections that are not on display are kept. Specific reports are prepared for temporary exhibitions in order to provide supporting material for the Facility Reports.
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CASE STUDY
Museums
National Cinema Museum, Turin
Since 2019, a collaboration with the National Museum of Cinema in Turin has focused on the thermohygrometric monitoring of the exhibition spaces at the Mole Antonelliana as well as storage areas spread across the Turin area. The activity is structured around a series of monthly coordination meetings aimed at evaluating which strategies to adopt to ensure the best preservation conditions for the Museum's vast collection.
CASE STUDY
Churches
Preceptory of Saint Anthony of Ranverso
As part of a collaboration with the Fondazione Ordine Mauriziano, the Preceptory of St. Anthony of Ranverso has been undergoing thermohygrometric monitoring since 2022. The monitoring focuses on areas where the most vulnerable artworks are displayed due to microclimatic conditions, namely the apse area and the sacristy. Currently, the Preceptory is a pilot site in the European project “ARGUS - Smart and remote monitoring for cultural heritage preservation” (No. 101132308).
CCR and accessibility
