Madonie Green Walls Revolution. Sustainable Revitalization and Enhancement of Sicilian Inner Rural Areas

Abstract

Italian villages, nestled in the Mediterranean basin, are treasures of historical charm and architectural heritage. Nevertheless, many of these picturesque communities’ face challenges related to the decline of building façades and the need for innovative solutions to enhance both urban aesthetics and the well-being of their population or new residents. This study presents a research-case conducted for the village of Polizzi Generosa, a delightful little town in the heart of the Sicilian hinterland, located within the Madonie Regional Natural Park. The primary objective of this research is to explore the application of green walls as a sustainable technological solution to improve the urban decor and the indoor and outdoor comfort of Italian villages. Green walls, comprised of vertical gardens or living walls, offer numerous advantages for urban spaces. They contribute to the creation of green, inviting public areas, providing indoor comfort and climate control. Additionally, they can mitigate the effects of adverse weather conditions, particularly during the colder months, and improve the quality of outdoor life. In Polizzi Generosa, an extensive analysis was conducted on the existing buildings in the historic center, with specific attention to those identified in a prior inventory for the "I Art Madonie" initiative, that had not been used only for wall street art. The project's scope also includes identifying new walls or retaining walls suitable for green wall installation, thereby contributing to the optimization of outdoor comfort and urban structures. A pivotal consideration for this project is the selection of plant species to use, especially for mountains inner areas. The choice of suitable vegetation for the location and climate plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the technological implementation and its compatibility with the existing architectural and historical context. Furthermore, innovative technological solutions will be explored to harmonize the integration of green walls with the historic building heritage, ensuring continuity between nature and construction tradition. The study aims to promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices, preserving and revitalizing the rich cultural heritage of the Madonie villages. Through the implementation of green walls, the project seeks to enhance both outdoor and indoor comfort, elevate the aesthetic appeal of the community, and control atmospheric elements for the benefit of residents and tourists. This multifaceted approach demonstrates the potential of green walls not only as an aesthetic enhancement but as a holistic solution for the revitalization of Italian villages while preserving their unique character. This case study in Polizzi Generosa becomes as an example of how green walls can be applied to improve the decorum not only of Sicilian inner rural areas, but also for other minor centers in the Mediterranean Basin, contributing to their resilience, sustainability, and overall attractiveness. It highlights the possibilities of using innovative solutions to create a symbiotic relationship between the urban environment and natural elements, ensuring a sustainable future for Italian villages in the Mediterranean region.