Sustainable Strategies for Protecting and Managing Cultural Heritages: The Case Study of Gonfienti in the Tuscany Region of Italy

Abstract

Global warming has caused an unprecedented rise in sea levels as well as increased storm intensity. Both phenomena are responsible for an increase in flooding and erosion of many archaeological sites located on the coast, which constitute a weak interface between the hydrosphere, atmosphere, anthroposphere, and lithosphere. The present research project aims to develop a sustainable model for safeguarding archaeological sites from the adverse effects of climate change and environmental degradation. In addition, by implementing site-specific planning and design based on ecological, bioclimatic, and energy-efficient strategies and techniques, sustainable preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage sites can be achieved to increase sitings and accessibility to sites.

The main objectives of the project are as follows:

• Investigate the impact and damage inflicted on archaeological sites by climate change and the risks and hazards of further deterioration;

• Analyze local climatic conditions and evaluate and use free energy systems available at archaeological sites while at the same time respecting the cultural character of locations.

• Improve visitors’ experience by creating a pleasant and comfortable sightseeing environment.

• Rehabilitate select archaeological sites in a holistic approach by protecting, defining, and upgrading sites through advanced planning and design solutions.

The project will establish a comprehensive state of the art of archaeological sites and spaces in the Mediterranean region. It will select three pilot site studies, one in each participating country—Italy, Cyprus, and France—for the ultimate aim of establishing sustainable preservation and cultural enhancement of the archaeological sites to the benefit of society.