The urban edge of the historical center of Randazzo (CT): a multiscale approach for restoration and rehabilitation

The ancient town of Randazzo is situated along the river Alcantara, on the northern slopes of the volcano Etna. Its strategic geographical position has profoundly influenced its history. Its territory is included in three important natural parks. Nonetheless, since the second half of the twentieth century and in spite of this important historical and natural profile, it has suffered significant alterations. The essay describes the analysis carried out on one of the most critical parts of the historical center, represented by the urban edge looking on to the river. This area is characterized by a basalt rock dominating the valley, whereby one can easily distinguish parts of the medieval fortifications, which have been severely affected by the building activity carried out in more recent years. The intervention proposal is based on the idea of maximizing the conservation and aims at reducing the effects of the detrimental elements through calibrated transformational operations. The rehabilitation project represents an enhancement opportunity for the area, in order to prevent its dereliction.