Inclusive Path Through Pavia: A Study to Link the Langobardic Heritage.

Abstract

The Italian historic centers have an architectural and archeological heritage widespread in the urban structure, which is not always easily accessible due to the orography and materials the streets and the squares are paved with. The topic of the urban accessibility is extremely complex and not easy to solve, also because the removal and overcoming of the architectural and sensorial barriers that could alter the original layout and consolidated historical memory must be avoided. The research investigates the accessibility and usability conditions of the urban environment between the Langobardic building and archeological sites in Pavia (Italy) to identify pedestrian routes that can be covered by weak persons in autonomy or with the help of a companion. The analysis and synthesis of the urban environment produce some maps which report the level of accessibility of the streets and allow to identify the best route between the Langobardic masterpieces in the downtown. The adopted evaluation system is the result of an investigation methodology defined and consolidated over the years by the activities of a group of researchers from the University of Pavia and is independent of the heritage of Langobardic origin; the same methodology can also be used to other types of widespread heritage in the historic center of the city (Romanesque, Lombard Gothic, etc.). The same methodology can be exported to other historical centers and can constitute the tool for the promotion of the architectural and archaeological heritage.