The Terra and Memory Institute – Centre for Advanced Studies of Mação (ITM) is a non-profit scientific association dedicated to research, advanced training, and the valorisation of cultural heritage within its territorial context.

Its work brings together archaeology, memory, science, and territory, contributing cultural responses to contemporary social, cultural, and environmental challenges.

Mission

To provide cultural responses to social, cultural, and environmental problems and dilemmas through the valorisation of memory and the sciences, within a systemic and integrated territorial approach.

Vision

ITM positions itself as a national reference organisation in the fields of archaeological consultancy, cultural heritage management, and integrated territorial management.

It also assumes a strong international vocation, supported by:

• an Atlantic network of partners, focused on the application of territorial products and solutions;
• an intercontinental cooperation network, dedicated to development, innovation, and knowledge transfer.

Objectives

ITM aims to promote and develop scientific research, postgraduate education, and advanced professional training in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage management, framed within their territorial context.

Its activities are oriented towards the valorisation of heritage within the framework of sustainable development, with particular attention to the promotion of cultural cooperation projects between Europe, Latin America, and Africa, as well as the enhancement of rural areas.

Members

ITM is an institution-based association, bringing together the following members:

• Polytechnic Institute of Tomar (founding member)
• Municipality of Mação (founding member)
• Interpretation Centre of Archaeology of Alto Ribatejo (founding member)
• University of Extremadura
• University of the Extreme South of Santa Catarina
• Association for the Defence of the Historical and Natural Heritage of the Riachos Region