Vittorio Faccincani Retires After Decades at Desenzano Archaeological Site
For the Roman villa in Desenzano, he meant a great deal: he was the faithful custodian, the gatekeeper, and also someone who collaborated on numerous restorations with the staff of the Superintendence.
Now, Vittorio Faccincani, who turned 65 last February 25th, after years of service in the Desenzano archaeological area, has reached his well-deserved retirement. With him, an important chapter of one of the most renowned archaeological sites in northern Italy comes to an end.
Originally from Peschiera del Garda, Faccincani joined the Archaeological Superintendence of Lombardy in August 1969, after passing the state exam. At that time, the superintendencies were still under the auspices of the Ministry of Public Education (Department of Fine Arts).
It was only in ’77, recalls the former custodian, that the Ministry of Cultural and Environmental Heritage was established. His first assignment was at the archaeological area of the Grotte di Catullo in Sirmione, and later, thanks to his construction experience, he was called to participate in the restoration works of the Roman villa in Desenzano, under the direction of superintendent Mirabella Roberti.
The works concluded in ’71 with the inauguration of the museum. In the meantime, Faccincani was asked to take on the role of custodian-gatekeeper of the new site. Over nearly 30 years of work, he also served as head of security and collaborated with various superintendents and excavation directors on restorations carried out over the years.
Memories and Future Activities
What memories does he have of this long activity? “I remember many things,” answers Faccincani; “for example, the parking area adjacent to Via Scavi Romani, which was later incorporated into the villa site; then the expansion work and the significant growth with the increase in visitors: once, entry was free, then…”
“I would like to take this opportunity that Bresciaoggi offers me,” he adds, “to publicly thank the Lombardy Superintendence.” What will he do now to pass the time? “I will continue with my favorite hobby, bocce.”
From his happy marriage with Mrs. Rosetta, Vittorio Faccincani has two children: Walter, a chartered accountant, and Luca.