Restoration projects and remedial works in the historical island of Ventotene

摘要

Ventotene is a very small island in the Mediterranean sea and yet a very remarkable natural and historic site. In fact the peculiar volcanic nature of the island and the ruins of the Roman Empire are joined together as a single and unique jewel, which attracts enthusiastic visitors from all over the world. However, the island is subjected to the continuous dismantling action of the natural agents, which cause an accelerated sequence of erosive phenomena and landslides. This peculiar process, which is progressively reducing the dimension of the island, is undermining the stability of monuments and ruins and has recently determined several collapses including some casualties. The paper examines the case of Ventotene by considering several interconnected topics: The geological nature of the island, the characteristics of its monuments and ruins, the geotechnical properties of the volcanic deposits, the erosive process, the typical landslides mechanisms. Particular attention is given to the search for equilibrated criteria and methods for the reduction of natural hazard, as well as for the protection of the monuments and landscape. The restoration project of the ancient Roman harbour is finally presented in some detail.