Memoria e innovazione. Alcune riflessioni sul patrimonio industriale in Abruzzo

This study intends to explain cultural heritage related to industrial archaeology in Abruzzo, Italy by studying various buildings. These buildings and factory constructions are now important due to their location in an area of interest, however, they are still far from being considered a ‘National Landmark’ or an important part of the community. They are neither acknowledged nor valued and instead are abandoned and consequently demolished. Such phenomenon appears evident in towns that have recently undergone expansions or redevelopments. Many urban centers in Abruzzo represent an example where industrial development has largely influenced urban growth and 20th-century activities. There are varying ideas surrounding the recovery and renewal of these heritage sites. Therefore new norms are required in order to regain significant areas of town – in particular former industrial areas. Social and political acceptance is needed, as well as innovative strategies for the recovery and re-use of these areas. This study hopes to create an awareness of the importance of restoring industrial sites both in urban design and territory planning, but without forgetting the economic side. An awareness might be the only guarantee for transforming industrial archeology into a common heritage and guaranteeing a future in the local development process. By restoring the most important buildings and attributing their past function to a current one, they can be valorized and utilized for many years to come.