A proposito di gentrificazione. Il padiglione Fuksas nel mercato di Porta Palazzo a Torino // About Gentrification. The Fuksas pavilion in the Porta Palazzo market in Turin

The purpose of this research paper is to analyse the development of the sociological phenomenon of gentrification, first explaining its general features and trying to give clear and effective definitions, thus circumscribing the scope of the investigation to make it easier to understand. The specific case of commercial gentrification was analysed, which saw the replacement of the more traditional food markets with what is known as 'gourmet markets', specialising in the search for exotic flavours and tastes to satisfy an elitist and restricted public. How this led hawkers, the first traders in the market, to move elsewhere because of the higher rents this process made available. The case of the Porta Palazzo market in Turin, a social and historical landmark of the city, was taken as a paradigmatic example. The municipal directives that guided this redevelopment process were then analysed. The research was based on municipal documents, sociological texts, and newspaper articles, as well as a site visit and an ad hoc designed opinion poll. In conclusion, it was explained how, in all likelihood, rather than solving the state of decay within this area, such dynamics only shift the problem elsewhere. It was reflected on how it is likely that the strong history and relationship with the context could lead to resistance to this phenomenon on the part of the traditional market. Finally, a full analysis was left for later research, as the effects of these actions will probably only be visible in the future.