Fortifications in the port area of Messina and Palermo between destruction, oblivion and debates on their restoration

Abstract

[EN] The fortified structures constitute in Sicily a very important heritage, because of its shape and its geographic location. Among many destructions of urban fortifications in the main cities of Sicily, the comparison between two of the most important cases, Messina and Palermo, can focus reason of the common destiny and factors who influenced the destruction of those monuments. Messina boasted since 1680 the so-called "Cittadella", built by engineer Royal Military Carlos de Grunenbergh on sickle-shaped peninsula; survived the earthquake of 1908, unfortunately the old military structure was partly demolished to make way for modern port and industrial buildings. Despite the partial demolition, the "Cittadella" is today a very significant monument, not only for its architectural and landscape value, but also because it is one of the few surviving examples of Messina as it was before the earthquake of 1908, which, as is known, destroyed the city almost completely. However, today, despite many studies carried out to date in an effort to restore and enhance the structure, it remains largely abandoned. Only the "Forte del Santissimo Salvatore", occupied by the Italian Navy, is in good condition and can be visited. The “Castello a mare” in Palermo had Islamic origins; there were an important church and a monumental palace; in the twenties this fortified architecture was destroyed to build a new port and the superintendent Francesco Valenti managed to save , after a long and interesting debate , only part of the structures. The essay explores the events relating the destruction and conservation efforts of these two fortifications, with reflections on the political and speculative factors that influenced these events.