Escape Room “Ancient Grains Orienteering”: Play, Territory, and Sustainability

Villarosa – Municipal Library, Villa Lucrezia Amphitheatre – July 3, 2025

On Thursday, July 3, the municipality of Villarosa hosted a new Geo-Event organized by Si.M.Geo – Ecomuseum System of the Rocca di Cerere UNESCO Global Geopark and the GAL Rocca di Cerere Geopark.

The initiative, titled “Ancient Grains Orienteering”, transformed the territory into a unique interactive route exploring biodiversity, farming traditions, and sustainable practices.

An Educational Experience Between Map and Landscape
The day began at the Municipal Library of Villarosa with institutional greetings from the Municipality of Villarosaand the Rocca di Cerere UNESCO Global Geopark.
Participants—equipped with maps, compasses, and game materials—then took part in an orienteering activity across thematic checkpoints, led by Salvatore Chilardi and Silvia Turco.

Following a route through both urban and rural areas, clues hidden within practical challenges, riddles, and direct observations guided participants in discovering ancient grains, agro-food sustainability, and traditional farming knowledge.

Final Tasting and Return to the Roots
The day concluded in the evening at the Villa Lucrezia Amphitheatre with a tasting of baked goods made from local ancient grains, curated by the Kore Siciliae Consortium.

This playful and educational initiative blended outdoor activity, learning, and fun, encouraging the rediscovery of rural heritage as a cultural and identity resource for local communities.