Renovating the Convent of Santa Maria Maddalena in Castel di Sangro. Goals, strategies, and criteria for a sustainable technological approach

The former Convent of Santa Maria Maddalena, a 15th-century Franciscan complex in Abruzzo, is a significant historical and cultural site, now home to the Museo Civico Aufidenate and a restored botanical garden. From July 20 to 27, 2024, an international workshop was held there to explore revitalization strategies. Students and faculty from various universities, coordinated by experts, used an interdisciplinary approach that combined digital surveying, 3D modeling, and architectural and landscape design. The workshop's main goal was to transform the convent into a model of sustainable and innovative conservation. Key proposals included: Architectural revitalization: Recovering unused spaces and adding new museum sections. Digitalization: Implementing a BIM (Building Information Modeling) system for better management. Landscaping improvements: Enhancing the botanical garden and creating educational paths and event spaces. Additionally, the project proposed temporary, reversible installations to expand the convent's functions without harming its historical integrity. The overall aim is to balance heritage preservation with increased accessibility and cultural potential, strengthening the link between the museum and the surrounding territory.