Post-seismic reconstruction and preservation of architectural surfaces. The Guidelines for building facades and external finishes in the Reconstruction plan of Fossa (AQ)

Fossa is one of the old towns which have been damaged by the 2009 earthquake. The Reconstruction plan – carried out with the support of the University of Catania – aimed to re-establish the integrity of the urban centre and its harmonious relationship with the landscape, while considering unavoidable urban transformations and the obvious priority linked to the inhabitants’ safety. This approach led to provide the plan with guidelines for architectural surfaces and external finishes. The study implied the cataloguing of architectural elements and surfaces, the analysis of incongruous transformations and diagnostic tests on plasters and colours. Moreover, a proper assessment of the vulnerability of these non-structural elements (plasters, cornices, mouldings) was necessary in light of the seismic history of the area. In this regard, it is necessary not to underestimate the fact that many of such elements show high levels of damage in response to moderate seismic activity. How is it possible to combine respect for traditional materials and finishes, not to mention the protection of the quality and authenticity of an entire historical centre, with the inescapable need for safety? How is it possible to engage the reconstruction actors (owners, municipal officials, designers, etc.) in a conscious effort to safeguard cultural heritage? The guidelines aimed to answer these questions and helped to provide compatible solutions for seismic risk mitigation, with a contribution to the knowledge of the local building tradition.