Research: Centers

International Research Center for Local Histories and Cultural Diversities

Aims: Research promotion, methodology and critical study of sources. Organization of seminars, specialization courses and study meetings. Collaboration with public and private institutions and scientific associations interested in supporting the sharing and diffusion of historical knowledge.

The International Center of Research for Local Histories and Cultural Diversities, established in 1999 as an Interfaculty institution, contributes to research studies of local history and culture.

These studies are conducted at various levels both in the Varese and Como areas according to the methodologies, techniques and criteria developed by the most modern contemporary historiography.

The Center works in close cooperation with, and coordinates the activities of the University and of a number of associations, foundations and organizations for the publication of journals specializing in the research of historical sources and the study of various periods and aspects of the historical development of the territory. Additionally, the Center organizes specialization courses and develops innovative research tools to be used in future research areas.

The investments in basic research, research facilities and scientific equipment are necessary for both the general survival of universities and the university system’s fulfillment of its mission of innovation and stimulation through its research centers and enterprises.

However, to be allocated funds from the European Union also requires the allocation of funds by the concerned member Country; unfortunately, the difficulty in having such national funds available has regrettably limited the participation of Italian research groups in large European research programs.

For this reason, the University pays special attention to the development of technological sites in Lombardy, and intends to maintain a close relationship with Lombard regional authorities. However, the University is striving to better integrate and sustain its efforts and relationships with its private and public partners. While aware of the importance of technical tests and certifications, the University also acknowledges the strategic importance of advanced research and scientific investigations, and is asking companies to invest in cooperative research projects, and to support post-graduate research courses in the cultural areas of their own interest. Companies may apply for University support in for strategic problem solving research, thus taking advantage of University faculty, staff, facilities and equipment.

Events

Didactics
Three master courses for specialists, teachers, museum managers, tourist and cultural operators: “Document sources for local histories: methodology and criticism” (1999-2000), “Archeology and territory” and “Document sources and the history of justice” (2001-2002).

Main activity fields

• Research: electronic editing of medieval documents concerning the territory of Varese and Como (contribution to the regional project “Digital diplomatic code of Western Lombardy”).
• Editing and inventorying of historical sources and bibliographical research about the Lombard Prealps.
• A special division of the Center is concerned with online digitizing and editing of the texts of Italian territorial and corporative statutes, dating between the XII and the XVIII century.
• Publications: a description of the collection of volumes issued by the IRCLHCD, together with  a complete list of works in preparation and data bases can be viewed at the following website address: www.cslinsubria.it