Naples, 7 May – In a crucial discussion held at Città della Scienza, experts convened to address the vital issue of safeguarding cultural heritage amidst the high seismic and volcanic risks prevalent in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing bradysismic crisis in the Phlegraean Fields area.
Protecting Cultural Heritage in a High-Risk Zone
The scientific meeting, part of the “Earthquakes of Italy” exhibition running from April 20 to May 9, focused on how to protect historical buildings and artifacts in a territory marked by significant geological instability. Vincenzo Calvanese, a councilor of the Order of Engineers of Naples and head of the Technical Office of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, highlighted the core of the discussions.
“The discussion concentrated on protection and safety strategies in monumental contexts, with particular reference to interventions carried out in post-earthquake scenarios,” Calvanese stated. He emphasized the importance of identifying critical issues and best practices that can be replicated in complex territories like the Phlegraean Fields.
The Challenge: Preservation and Authenticity
The central challenge, as reiterated during the expert exchange, is to implement effective interventions that simultaneously respect the historical originality of buildings and artifacts. This approach adheres to the “reversible-compatible-distinguishable” triad, ensuring that preservation efforts do not compromise the authenticity of the cultural heritage.
A key takeaway from the discussion was the strategic importance of a virtuous relationship between the world of pure and applied research. This collaboration is deemed essential for developing innovative and respectful preservation techniques.
“Earthquakes of Italy” Exhibition and Key Contributors
The “Earthquakes of Italy” exhibition, promoted by the Department of Civil Protection, saw its Neapolitan leg organized and funded through a collaboration with the Campania Region. Key organizers included the Order of Engineers of the Province of Naples, presided over by Andrea Prota; the Inarcassa Foundation, led by Andrea De Maio; and the Department of Structures for Engineering and Architecture of the University of Naples Federico II, directed by Emidio Nigro.
The day dedicated to the protection of cultural heritage in seismic and volcanic risk zones, such as the Phlegraean area, featured significant contributions from prominent figures. Among them were Luigi Ferrara, Head of the Casa Italia Department at the Presidency of the Council, and Mario Fiorentino, Head of the Mission Structure for the Reconstruction of the 2009 L’Aquila Earthquake, also at the Presidency of the Council.
Engineer Calvanese, who coordinated the day’s proceedings, concluded, “The conference brought together the highest national institutions on the theme of reconstruction and conservation of historical and monumental buildings, universities, and experts from the Ministry of Culture, addressing the very delicate relationship between cultural heritage and seismic events that risk forever destroying the historical memory of communities.” He added that the discussion pushed for a common direction in protecting and ensuring the safety of heritage while respecting the integrity of cultural assets.
The event underscores Naples’ proactive stance in addressing the unique challenges posed by its geological landscape, aiming to safeguard its rich cultural legacy for future generations.
Source: https://napoli.corriere.it/notizie/cronaca/26_maggio_07/napoli-la-tutela-dal-rischio-sismico-del-patrimonio-culturale-studiosi-a-confronto-b487ec48-3c5b-4ccf-85da-77c00ca33xlk.shtml
