Anthropology of Forgery. Multidisciplinary Approaches for Cultural Heritage Protection

Are you fascinated by the secrets behind art and cultural heritage? Join the International Summer School "Anthropology of Forgery" at the University of Padova and explore the hidden world of art fakes, counterfeits and the science of authentication.
Discover how experts uncover deception, protect cultural heritage and tackle crimes that cost billions every year. Engage with real cases and gain insights from leading international and national experts.
Learn through hands-on labs, workshops, and exclusive visits to archaeological and art collections across the Veneto region. Explore the complex world of art markets, ethics and provenance from an interdisciplinary point of view.
Understand how false narratives are created — and how to counter them. Whether you're studying art, law, science, or history, this programme will provide you with tools to protect what matters most.
Be part of a global network of students and professionals committed to cultural integrity!
This Summer School is supported by some of the world's leading institutions in the field of cultural heritage.
Apply and spend your summer in one of Italy's most historic academic cities!
INFORMATION
Period: 29 June 2026 - 10 July 2026
Target audience: Master's and PhD students, professionals from cultural institutions (museums, archives and libraries)
Minimum number of participants: 20
Maximum number of participants: 40
Language: English
Location: Padova
ECTS: 6
Fee: 900 euros for 2 weeks / 20% discount for students of partner universities / 50% discount for Arqus students (including Unipd students). A limited number of exemptions might be applied.
Contact: summerschool@unipd.it
Applications: from 15 April to 15 May 2026
The second call is open to EU and NON-EU candidates who do not require a visa to enter Italy for short-term stays.
Schools will run only if the minimum number of participants is reached.
Deadline for second call registration: from 15 April to 15 May 2026