PEBA

Villa Thiene, located in Quinto Vicentino (VI), has undergone the drafting and implementation of the Architectural Barriers Elimination Plan (PEBA), funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU within the framework of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), Mission 1 – Digitalization, Innovation, Competitiveness and Culture, Measure 1 “Cultural Heritage for the Next Generation,” Component 3 – Culture 4.0 (M1C3-3), Investment 1.2.

The project involved a total investment of €500,000, allocated to the removal of physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers, with the aim of making the museum fully accessible and promoting broader and more inclusive cultural participation.

The PEBA was developed to:

• identify architectural barriers and critical issues within the monumental complex;
• define the interventions necessary to improve overall accessibility;
• assess the impact of the completed works and verify their long-term effectiveness.

The plan was drafted in accordance with Regional and Ministry of Culture Guidelines, placing the principle of universal accessibility at its core: the quality of spaces directly affects the possibility of use by everyone, regardless of age or temporary or permanent reduced motor, sensory, or cognitive abilities.

The project was designed by architects Serena Franceschi and Adelmo Lazzari of LAIRA Srl.

Following the development of the PEBA, the following interventions were carried out:

1. Removal of physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers through new entrances, lifting platforms, accessible facilities, and digital tools (3D, virtual reality, apps, and QR codes) to ensure maximum accessibility and inclusion.
2. Digital surveying and 3D modeling of Villa Thiene to create immersive experiences (virtual tours, VR headsets, gamification) that enhance the frescoes and historical spaces while making them accessible to everyone.
3. Construction of durable and sustainable architectural interventions (new staircase, glass walls, walkways) with attention to water conservation, rainwater recovery, and proper management of construction waste.
4. Progressive increase in visitor numbers, enhancement of safety systems, and improvement of pedestrian accessibility to ensure safe and inclusive use.
5. Creation of a local and institutional partnership network to promote the Villa nationally and internationally, integrating PNRR funds, IRVV contributions, and tourism promotion projects linked to UNESCO sites.