Multimodal musealization of an ancient musical artefact: From investigation to simulation and interactive engagement

Archaeological sound-producing artefacts are very valuable historical and cultural heritage assets, but often remain “silent” in museum displays, making it difficult for visitors to engage with their original sonic dimension. This paper presents the multidisciplinary study and multimodal musealization of a Hellenistic terracotta rattle (IG 12929) discovered in infant burial no. 39 of the Ca’ Cima necropolis in Adria (Rovigo, Northern Italy). Combining archaeological research, non-invasive diagnostic analyses, 3D digitisation, sound recording, and digital technologies, the project revealed previously unknown aspects of the artefact, including four internal terracotta pellets identified by X-ray and CT scans. These findings informed the development of an innovative museum installation centred on a tangible replica capable of reproducing the recorded rattle sound while supporting tactile, visual, auditory, and haptic interaction. Designed through a collaborative co-design process involving archaeologists, musicologists, engineers, museum professionals, and communication specialists, the installation emphasises accessibility and inclusive engagement, incorporating features for visually impaired visitors and multimodal forms of interaction. The project also led to the creation of a Sound Bank platform for documenting, preserving, and contextualising sonic cultural heritage resources. By integrating research, conservation, accessibility, and public dissemination, the Adria rattle case study proposes a replicable model for the interpretation and presentation of archaeological sound heritage in contemporary museums.