Analysis and regeneration strategies for the abandoned villages of the Santerno valley in Tuscany

Abstract

[EN] The historical settlement system of the Mugello mountain in Tuscany is characterised by scattered rural stone villages and houses. In the past these villages housed communities mainly dedicated to the centuries-old cultivation of chestnut. The process of abandonment can be traced back between the 50s and 60s, when the inhabitants left these isolated places to head towards the cities in search of better economic and living conditions. This paper illustrates the research carried out on three abandoned settlements in the municipality of Firenzuola, with particular reference to the Santerno valley. Pratalecchia, Brento Sanico and Castiglioncello were taken as case studies to carry out a typological and constructive analysis, comprising conservation state and vulnerability maps of their vernacular heritage. The first part of the investigation analyzes the context and the environmental resources; identifies the characteristics of the recurring architectural types; and operates a classification of the building techniques. The main classes of stone-masonry types have been recorded. By applying the masonry quality index (IQM) method the mechanical parameters of the masonry types have been determined. In the second part of the research, the conservation state of the buildings have been assessed. According to a risk-based approach, a vulnerability level was determined for each building, considering the quality of the construction elements, the damage degree and the relation with adjacent buildings. The research allowed to outline a first methodological approach in order to plan future intervention priorities and to identify strategies for the sustainable conservation, enhancement and rehabilitation of this architectural heritage.