BARATTA, ADOLFO1; FARRONI, LAURA2; PIFERI, CLAUDIO3

1) Researcher, University of Rome “Tre”, Department of Architecture, adolfo.baratta@uniroma3.it

2) Researcher, University of Rome “Tre”, Department of Architecture, laura.farroni@u

Given the extreme relativism of the meaning of preservation with regards to the technological and cultural approaches, it is clear that all which is naturally damaged must be repaired or replaced. Such actions, which were once only reserved for works of art, are also currently being directed towards common works whose materiality represents a sign of the value that must be preserved. Considering these reflections, the contribution takes on the preservation theme related to buildings with bearing walls made of brick and/or stone; a typically traditional Italian architectural and building technique. By using two case studies as examples, the structure of the former Mattatoio (Slaughterhouse) in Rome and the structure of the Murate (Walled-in nuns) in Florence, the permanence of the material component theme, which contributes to the preservation of the architectural identity of a project aimed to change its destination of use, is clear.

Keywords: Load-bearing masonry, building traditions, preservation and restoration, the structure of the Mattatoio (Slaughterhouse) in Rome, the structure of the Murate (Walled-in nuns) in Florence