Fortifications and landscape system: geological and geomorphological resilience in the development of the La Spezia Gulf

Abstract

[EN] The gulf of La Spezia, in the North-Western part of the Mediterranean coast, harbours in its profound arc a rich and complex system of fortifications, which finds in the Maritime Military Arsenal (1869) its propelling force. Napoleon was amongst the first to build a key military base in this strategic location which was a fortification in itself. This study uses landscape structure analysis, geomorphological studies and cartographic recognitions to highlight how a different approach to the landscape management affects the resilience of the site, especially while accomplishing military objectives. This trans-disciplinary process will highlight how historical and social changes relate to different approaches in land management; in particular how political objectives (such as defence and control of territory) reflect a precise idea of landscape. The final aim will be to identify key features that allow an accurate re-reading of the landscape itself.