The role of craftsmanship in the conservation of Venice. State of the art and perspective

Abstract

[EN] The case of Venice shows how the overall image, the perception of vernacularity of the historical built aggregates, strongly depends on the ability not only to preserve as much as possible, but also to "replicate" the consolidated building techniques to ensure continuity with the actions of restoration and consolidation. This option also contemplates forms of substitution and refurbishment, in contrast with the principles of conservation which favor the criterion of recognizability of the addition and reject the replacement of components, even when executed in an appropriate and harmonious manner, often the only option possible when attempting to preserve the Venetian character of the city’s buildings.The most pressing issue is that of the progressive disappearance of local craftsmanship. This is particularly dramatic in the case of Venice, where specific knowledge is needed in order to carry out interventions on elements of historical buildings. The objectives of protection are also of relevance in this case as they present particular difficulty for foreign workers or workers who have completed different training. In this regard, this text examines the measures implemented to counteract this phenomenon, particularly the effectiveness and role of each of the hypotheses examined, already partially addressed in the city, training courses for artisans and technicians; public subsidies and incentives and the role of the authorities.