Casalvecchio Siculo: strategie per la valorizzazione

The research, which began in 2012 and is still ongoing, concerns six small towns that overlook the Ionian coast of eastern Sicily. The centres, homogeneous and coeval, share the same architectural language and are in a critical condition due to natural phenomena: floods and landslides; and socio-economic conditions: depopulation, lack of productive resources. The geographical location and the modest dimensions have made the small hill towns of the Ionian area practically invisible within the new media. The objectives of this research, in line with some actions foreseen in the National Strategy for Internal Areas, are: to stimulate the creation of a strong cultural identity in resident citizenship and to hypothesise communication strategies which are useful for the enhancement of cultural resources. The methodology applied to the Casalvecchio case-study is based on a few key points: finding cognitive data: direct and instrumental surveys, representation; m orphological and typological analysis useful for the creation of tools for safeguarding; design communication and valorisation strategies. The expected results are, first of all, an increased awareness of cultural identity and a real interchange between neighbouring realities. Secondly, the elaboration of basic data to safeguard the architectural heritage. Finally, the dissemination of data obtained through communication strategies which could strengthen the positive reputation of these places and increase sustainable tourism.