Conservation of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, L’Aquila (Italy)
Conservation of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, L’Aquila (Italy) (Europa Nostra Prix 2006)
The jury in 2006 praised an ingenious human and ecological approach to preserve and breathe life into a deserted mediaeval fortified village, setting a precedent for the revival of rural architectural heritage throughout Europe.
The main aims of this initiative were to salvage and restore minor architectural heritage in a deserted and abandoned mediaeval fortified village in order to transform it into a large hotel complex. In addition to accommodation and catering facilities, the plans for this space feature workshops for traditional craftsmanship, a wine cellar, shops selling local gastronomic products, an inn, services for tourism and related activities, a conference centre and meeting rooms, a wellness area, and a centre for excursions. The approach followed has preserved the patina of age and past evidence of poverty, such as smoke-blackened plaster, as an integral part of heritage.
Brief analysis of the case:
This is an intervention carried out on various buildings within a former fortified burgh. The intervention, carried out with private funds, has converted a group of buildings into a structure for accommodation and tourist services. The intervention, with a strong rehabilitation and accessibility component, has managed to combine the requirements of modernisation with respect for the character of rural architecture. In addition to the actions linked to the refurbishment of the spaces and the updating of the facilities and services, conservation, repair, structural consolidation and in some cases reconstruction of some parts have been carried out. These actions have been complemented with an important part linked to the enhancement of the buildings themselves but also of the local culture through gastronomy, excursions and tourist activities. This is a case that advocates cultural tourism in an intervention that pursues sustainability at all levels.