Mementouri

Mementouri, in Romanian usage, refer to objects kept as reminders of people, places, events, or experiences. The term derives from the Latin memento, "to remember," and is closely linked to the concept of a memento or keepsake. In broader English usage, a memento is any object kept as a reminder; mementouri is the plural form in languages like Romanian.

They take many forms, including photographs, letters, handwritten notes, medals, souvenirs, jewelry, tokens from ceremonies, and digital files such as scans and videos. Personal mementouri are often kept in boxes, albums, or display cases; institutional mementouri can appear in museums, archives, or memorial institutions.

The function of mementouri is to preserve memory, support personal and family identity, and provide material ties to past events or people. They can facilitate storytelling, mourning, and education, helping future generations understand history from a private or community perspective. Cultural practices around mementouri vary, including how they are stored, displayed, or disposed of.

With digital technology, many mementouri exist as digital artifacts—photographs, emails, social media posts, or virtual memorials—raising questions about preservation, access, and privacy. Conservation considerations for physical mementouri include proper handling, climate-controlled storage, and protection from light, moisture, and pests.

In sum, mementouri are considered tangible carriers of memory that enable individuals and societies to remember, interpret, and connect with the past.