PEX – Lab2PT Internal Exploratory Projects

 

Project Integrated valorization of the prehistoric heritage of Vila Velha de Rodão | PRÉ-RODÃO

The creation of internal exploratory projects is a key strategy for strengthening the Lab2PT team. The formation of interdisciplinary teams is crucial for developing and establishing research networks that promote the internationalisation of knowledge production, the exploration of new avenues of research and the strengthening of applications for competitive funding. Fostering such teams is therefore fundamental to cementing interdisciplinary research practices that bring together coordinated teams of senior and junior researchers, whilst attracting Master’s and PhD students. The aim is to create prospects for sustainability and to enhance scientific employment policy through the opportunities available for attracting and recruiting researchers of excellence.
Exploratory funding is awarded annually to proposals aimed at exploring new avenues of research or consolidating those already underway, with the specific aim of strengthening transdisciplinary approaches.

In the 2025–2026 round, six Exploratory Projects were approved.

 

Today we present the Project Integrated valorization of the prehistoric heritage of Vila Velha de Rodão | PRÉ-RODÃO

 

Scientific Areas: Archaeology, History, Geology, Communication
PI: Telmo Pereira
Team: Francisco Mendes, Olga de Matos and João Caninas (AEAT – Association for the Study of the Upper Tagus, CHAIA, EMERITA), Francisco Henriques (AEAT), Jorge Gouveia (AEAT), Pedro Proença e Cunha (University of Coimbra, MARE), Carlos Neto de Carvalho (Naturtejo Geopark, Municipality of Proença-a-Nova), Sara Garcês (Polytechnic Institute of Tomar, CGeo – Centre for Geosciences), Luís Raposo (President of ICOM), Ana Carmona (Vila Velha de Rodão Town Council), Isabel Gaspar (Vila Velha de Rodão Town Council, CIART)
Project duration: 11 July 2026 to 10 July 2027

 

Vila Velha de Rodão is part of an exceptional collection of prehistoric heritage within the Tejo Internacional Natural Park: Neanderthal settlements, megalithic structures, and rock art. However, this heritage remains poorly integrated with research, education and appreciation. PRE-RODÃO aims to present:

 

– a plan to strengthen Rodão’s presence in European Heritage Networks (megalithic structures, rock art, and Neanderthal settlements);

– a diagnosis of textbooks and heritage literacy, with recommendations and resources to be incorporated to improve the approach to Prehistory and Archeology;

– a UFMG field school anchored in CIART as a pivot for dissemination.

 

PRE-RODÃO brings together universities, associations, companies, and decision-makers to:

a. the. maximize interdisciplinarity, leveraging knowledge for the development of cultural tourism in an inland region;

b. strengthen the internationalization of the region and the institutions involved;

c. create a basis for future competitive funding applications.

 

More information: HERE