World Heritage Site:
The Trulli of Alberobello
Publication Year:
2025
Publication Type:
Conference paper
Publication Identifier:
WHEB6F52F2E23
Summary
Research reveals that the UNESCO World Heritage status of Alberobello's Trulli has paradoxically fueled the persistence and proliferation of historical myths, despite its intended role as a safeguard for accurate cultural narration. While the designation aimed to boost global tourism, it did not impose obligations on site managers to ensure historical fidelity, leading to widespread dissemination of inaccurate narratives in guided tours and non-authentic merchandise. The study employs an ethnographic approach to analyze two prominent myths—alleged tax evasion by early settlers and the magical influence of roof symbols—which continue to shape public perception despite lacking verifiable historical basis. This highlights a critical gap between UNESCO's conservation objectives and the commercialization of heritage sites, where economic incentives often overshadow scholarly rigor.
Citation
Rosato, G. C. (2025). Così falso da sembrare vero: il fact checking nell'era della fake history. Un approccio etnografico ad Alberobello. Duetredue Edizioni. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.18698207