Rehabilitation and reuse of historic masonry buildings in Europe

Abstract

AbstractIn the last 30 years, the restoration of our cultural heritage has become common practice. Initially, only very important monumental buildings were saved and restored, while the rest were demolished and replaced. Then historic centres and groups of buildings were protected, preserving all structures in a reaction to the previous systematic spoiling of the cultural heritage. Subsequently, it was recognized that all urban structures, including small dwellings, should be respected and preserved with great care.Nowadays, this respect for old buildings means finding out every detail of their architecture, fabric and structure. The importance of controlling the efficacy of the techniques of repair and improvement is appreciated[1].This article attempts to provide a state‐of‐the‐art review of the European, and in particular the Italian, attitude towards the reuse of historic buildings with the help of some case histories.